Jamie Holloway, PT, DPT, PhD, Assistant Professor and Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy recently co-authored a paper that was published in the Journal of Infants and Young Children. The paper is titled “The Intersection of Gross Motor Abilities and Participation in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder,” and it was co0-authored with Toby Long, PhD, PT, FAPTA and Fred Biasini, PhD.

Abstract:

“Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate movement difficulties in addition to problems with social communication and interactions, and repetitive or restrictive behaviors. The goal of early intervention for children with disabilities is to promote participation in routines and activities, but little is known about the role gross motor abilities contribute to participation for young children with ASD. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between gross motor abilities and participation in preschool-aged children with ASD. Twenty-two children with ASD participated in the study. Gross motor skills were measured using the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales, Second Edition. Participation was measured using the Preschool Activity Card Sort. Children who had greater gross motor skills also demonstrated greater participation in self-care, high-demand leisure, and social interaction activities. Results also identified activities that may be difficult for preschoolers with ASD. Findings suggest that early childhood intervention providers consider the impact of gross motor deficits within the context of participation in daily routines and activities.”

To read the full paper visit: https://journals.lww.com/iycjournal/Fulltext/2021/07000/The_Intersection_of_Gross_Motor_Abilities_and.3.aspx