The Parent Guide to Exercise on the Spectrum

1 Sept

Supporting an autistic child to be physically active can sometimes feel challenging. Life on the spectrum is different in many ways and there are a plethora of barriers to accessing physical activity and professional support.

My mission at Exercise on the Spectrum is to overcome these barriers through:

High quality neuro-affirming Exercise Physiology supports
Synthesizing all of the scientific evidence and my knowledge from over 10 years of clinical practice in easy to understand ways
Providing training and learning opportunities for teachers, sporting clubs and health professionals
Creating more champions of inclusion by empowering professionals and families with the information they need
Providing resources at low or no cost to the autism community

The Parent Guide to Exercise on the Spectrum was created for parents and carers who want practical, evidence-based information about exercise and physical activity for autistic children and young people.

The guide covers:

Why exercise and physical activity are important
How autism can influence participation in physical activity
Sensory and motor considerations, and regulation benefits of movement and exercise
Choosing activities that are appropriate and enjoyable
Creating more accessible and inclusive exercise environments
Practical strategies to support participation
How to build positive, lifelong relationships with physical activity

Whether your child already enjoys being active or you're struggling to find activities they will engage with, this guide provides a starting point for understanding what can help, what to consider, and how to make exercise work for your child.

It draws on current evidence as well as more than a decade of experience working with autistic children and young people.

Best of all, it's free.