Vancouver Martial Arts
  • Home
  • Trial Offer
  • About Us
    • Blog
    • Social
    • FAQ
  • Classes
    • KIDS MARTIAL ARTS
    • Teen Martial Arts
    • Krav Maga
  • Contact

4/24/2017

Martial Arts Proven Beneficial for Individuals with Autism

3 Comments

Read Now
 
Picture
A recent and growing trend that has provided many benefits for children on the autism spectrum involves their engagement in karate and other martial arts.

A 2010 research project conducted by the University of Wisconsin physical therapy department confirmed what parents were already reporting - in the course of learning martial arts, children with autism essentially came out of their shells and grew more socially assertive and cooperative. They exhibited better balance and motor coordination, eye contact improved and play skills were further developed. Greater self-esteem was also reported, with the added bonus of these kids being able to defend themselves, if need be.

Karate and martial arts assist kids on the autism spectrum with the ability to concentrate and focus their attention in a consistent and highly structured environment. Additionally, parents find that new skills carry over into home and at school. The release of energy in a safe and ritualized environment can bring a child to a new sense of calm. Friendships are formed around a shared activity and that sense of belonging can be the greatest reward of all.

If contemplating martial arts for your child, it's always good to consult with his or her doctor prior to beginning any physical training. Observe the class before committing your child to it. It should be small and solely for children with autism, at least initially. Higher functioning children may be able to integrate into regular classes immediately. Confer with the instructor about your child's needs and make sure you feel you can successfully partner with them.

Once your child is underway, have them practice at home in a no pressure environment and offer encouragement and reinforcement for the moves they have already learned. A demonstration for siblings or other relatives will also go a long way in building confidence and self-esteem.

Martial arts offers therapeutic rewards and parents will enjoy the fact that their child can participate in activities that other kids take for granted. And with summer fast approaching, it just may be the perfect activity to consider.

Share

3 Comments
Chris Pederson link
2/22/2021 03:47:10 pm

Thanks for the advice to talk with my son's doctor before signing him up for martial arts therapy. That could work but I want to know what his doctor has to say. Otherwise, there could be a lot of issues and things could end up worse for my boy.

Reply
mixed martial arts betting odds link
9/25/2022 07:39:06 pm

Many thanks for making this information available. Without a doubt, this was advantageous to us readers.

Reply
Braden Bills link
2/3/2023 06:53:26 am

My son has autism, and I'm trying to find a good extracurricular activity for him. It's good to know that martial arts can be really helpful for someone with autism! I can see how the structured environment would be really beneficial.

Reply



Leave a Reply.

Details

    Archives

    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017

2 convenient locations

WEST VANCOUVER
​6204 NE Hwy. 99 
Vancouver, WA 98665 

Phone:  360-695-6845 
EAST VANCOUVER
​16420 SE McGillivray Blvd 
Vancouver, WA 98683 ​
​
Phone:  
360-693-5425

Hours

Monday through Thursday: 12pm - 8pm
Friday: 12pm - 7pm
© COPYRIGHT 2017. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
  • Home
  • Trial Offer
  • About Us
    • Blog
    • Social
    • FAQ
  • Classes
    • KIDS MARTIAL ARTS
    • Teen Martial Arts
    • Krav Maga
  • Contact