Open Discussion about Autism and Martial Arts

8 December, 2011 - English, Open Discussion, The Autism News, Weekly Guests

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From Lynda C.

I have heard that martial arts are good for children with autism. Why is that?

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Cindy Smith Howard says:

January 26, 2012 at 6:04 pm

My 7-year-old son, with high-functioning Autism, has been enrolled in Kenpo Karate for 8 months and the benefits have been numerous: Karate builds self-esteem and pride with increased motor and memory skills and the mastery of learning the sport; builds character by discussing and enforcing numerous positive character traits; encourages team building and good sportsmanship; demands respectfulness towards the instructor and all students; and promotes friendship between equals. Plus, Karate is “cool”. There is a time-commitment and cost-factor involved for the lessons, gi (uniform), competitions, “camps” and equipment but we feel it has been well worth it!

Matt D McMillan says:

December 10, 2011 at 12:41 am

Daniel Carroll, thanks for your explanation of the use of Martial Arts as a helpful way to assist Autistic individuals gaining self confidence and important physical benefits. As a psychotherapist, I can tell you that helping an ASD child and or adult learn skills like: self regulation, mastery of a task through repetition, and hands on/ tactile life skills will grow not only their brain pathways but increase their self confidence and self-worth. Did I mention that parents would be thankful to for the emotional regulation the ASD individual would exhibit at home…Us parents could all accept more days of a peaceful house : ).
I am thankful for folks like yourself Danie thatl are willing to find unique ways to help ASD Children and adults. Thanks, Matthew

Daniel Carroll says:

December 13, 2011 at 2:34 am

Matt D McMillan, I appreciate the reply. I’d like to expand on something you said about the emotional regulation. One of the hidden benefits of a Martial Arts program is the added source of behavioral modification development / enforcement. A good program works with the parents to help develop and implement a positive program for emotional growth. It’s an added source of checks and balances, and can help both home and school behavior.

Really, it’s a way to help the child see positive growth in every aspect of his / her life.

Daniel Carroll says:

December 8, 2011 at 11:20 pm

Martial Arts provide several benefits to all practitioners, regardless of needs or abilities, but a martial art program taught by a teacher who understands special needs inherent in Austism and Asergers can have a profound impact upon the student. From a physiological standpoint, martial arts develop both muscle memory and fitness, plus there are studies that would indicate that it helps to develop neurological pathways within the brain itself.

Many children on the spectrum have physical issues concerning fine and gross motor control. These issues are most commonly addresses through repetitive motion exercises with PT and OT. Martial Arts do the exact same thing, but within a more engaging and fun environment. Martial arts help develop coordination and strength between the left / right sides of the body, as well as top / bottom, up / down movements, and fine motor control of the hands.

The mental and emotional benefits of being able to progress through a tangible reward systems of belts also helps to foster positive attitudes and build self confidence and self worth.

In the interests of transparency, I am currently developing a program and school specifically to teach Martial Arts to children and adults with special needs, focusing on ASD.

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Open Discussion about Autism and Martial Arts

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