Engaging Teenagers with Autism in Sport: Evidence-Based Strategies to Improve Participation, Confidence and Social Skills
Engaging Teenagers with Autism in Sport: Evidence-Based Strategies to Improve Participation, Confidence and Social Skills Introduction Sport has the potential to be one of the most powerful environments for helping teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) develop physical competence, social confidence, emotional regulation and a sense of belonging. For many autistic young people, however, traditional sporting environments can present substantial barriers. Challenges related to communication, sensory processing, social interaction, executive functioning, motor coordination and anxiety can make participation difficult if coaches and organisations are not prepared to adapt their approach. Research over the past decade has increasingly demonstrated that when sport is delivered in an autism-friendly manner, participation can lead to meaningful improvements in social communication, motor skills, behavioural regulation, self-esteem and overall wellbeing. Systematic reviews and meta...