Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects millions of people globally, and each person has unique needs, challenges, and strengths. Clinical therapy, including behavioral and speech interventions, provide the foundation of support for individuals with autism. A growing body of research and real-world experience supports the effectiveness of related activities, which are non-clinical, usually community-based activities that foster holistic development. Art and music therapy, social clubs, organized sports, and nature-based therapies are some examples of these activities. As we strive for a more inclusive society, it becomes imperative to understand and support these positive activities. Provided below is an outlook at very effective activities that are now being used to help individuals with ASD and how they promote social integration and development.
## Music
Many individuals with ASD display a heightened sensitivity or what some may consider a belonging to music, more specifically rhythm and sounds. Moreover, research has repeatedly displayed that with music, there's an evident sense of improvement in social engagement, verbal communication, and even brain connectivity in children with autism. According to a 2018 randomized clinical research that was published in JAMA, music therapy improved parent-child bonding and enhanced functional brain connectivity in kids with ASD (Nirali Patel). While rhythmic structures can aid in attention management and sensory integration, music provides a nonverbal means of expressing emotions.
## Art
People with ASD can express ideas and feelings through art therapy that they might not be able to express verbally. Children and adults with autism can express themselves in creative, safe spaces that prioritize self-discovery through painting, sculpting, or drawing. Art therapy has been demonstrated to enhance fine motor abilities, lessen anxiety and aggressiveness, and enhance sensory integration in children with autism (Art Therapy Association). Art's open and unstructured character encourages individualized techniques that are tailored to each person's needs.
## Physical activity
Yoga, martial arts, and dance are examples of movement-based interventions that are becoming more and more popular as complementary activities. Exercise can help with the development of motor skills, enhance focus, and lessen stereotypical behaviors that are frequently linked to ASD. Moderate physical activity enhances classroom behavior and emotional regulation in addition to helping with gross motor coordination, according to a systematic review published in Autism Research (Autism Research Journal).
It has been demonstrated that physical activity therapies support the behavioral, intellectual, social, and motor domains in addition to improving the physical health of young people with ASD. According to a meta-analysis of 16 studies, exercise regimens reduced ASD symptoms by an average of ~37% (Srinivasan et al., 2014). Notable decreases in repetitive behaviors, hostility, and hyperactivity were also seen. Exercises like jogging, swimming, cycling, resistance training, and horseback riding have been associated with gains in muscular and cardiovascular fitness as well as behavioral changes like less stereotypical movements and better participation in class.
Furthermore, there were cognitive and academic advantages to including structured physical activity in the classroom. According to studies referenced in the article, small amounts of aerobic activity before classes significantly improved students' focus, accuracy, and general engagement. Along with this, there was a correlation between student engagement and activity levels, indicating that even small increases in physical activity can help improve results in the classroom (Srinivasan et al., 2014).
On another note, children and adolescents with ASD are at a higher risk of being overweight or obese—having a 30.4% incidence as opposed to 23.6% in peers without ASD (Srinivasan et al., 2014). This is due to less physical activity in earlier/developmental stages, something that can be fought through the inclusion of “Allied Programs” in public institutions like primary, secondary, or high schools along with libraries, park districts and more.
## Conclusion
All in all, “Allied Activities” have proven beneficial for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and are very effective with helping mitigate the effects of ASD symptomatology. It is still, without a doubt, necessary to continue increasing access to, and awareness about, opportunities to partake in “Allied Activities” in order to make sure the development of people with ASD continues to improve.
Even though clinical and allied therapies have advanced significantly in helping people with autism, they are only a portion of the answer. Physical exercise, music, art, and animal-assisted treatments are all extremely valuable interventions for enhancing quality of life and promoting development, but they need to be more widely available, individualized, and integrated. Our dedication to innovation, diversity, and equity in care must change along with our knowledge of ASD. Building a future where every person with autism has the chance to realize their full potential—not just in therapy sessions but in daily life—will require more research, more financing, and greater community awareness.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4040426/