Abstract
Objectives
Limited research has examined the experiences of children on the autism spectrum who have verbal expressive language, and no research to date has explored the physical activity (PA) preferences of children and the autism spectrum with complex communication needs (CCN). This exploratory qualitative study aimed to understand the PA preferences of children on the autism spectrum with CCN, based on previous PA experiences and the PA experiences of these families.
Methods
A picture preference chart interview was utilized to capture the PA preferences of the child participants. Pictures were coded based on activity type to explore themes in preferences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the children’s parents to explore PA experiences for the family and coded using thematic analysis.
Results
Children on the autism spectrum with CCN were able to express preferences for certain physical activities. Preferences were triangulated with semi-structured parent interviews and parental perceived child preferences. Additional semi-structured parental interviews presented the following themes regarding PA participation for family engagement: (a) the importance of PA and exercise, (b) sensory experiences participating in PA, and (c) atypical struggles.
Conclusions
Children on the autism spectrum with CCN were able to convey PA preferences (as triangulated by parental reports), and their opinions should be incorporated when designing physical activity programs and physical education experiences. PA participation of families who have a child on the autism spectrum with CCN provides for unique challenges, and more support is needed to promote engagement and improve health outcomes for both these affected individuals and their families.
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AJB: designed and executed the study, analyzed the data, interpreted results, and is involved in writing and editing of the manuscript. TK: assisted in data collection, analyzed the data, interpreted results, and is involved in writing the manuscript.
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This study was performed in line with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Approval was granted by California State University, Chico Institutional Review Board (# 21294).
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Blagrave, A.J., Kemper, T. Physical Activity Preference and Parent Report of Experiences for Children on the Autism Spectrum with Complex Communication Need. Adv Neurodev Disord 7, 213–221 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41252-022-00295-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s41252-022-00295-1