Date

5-2025

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Human Development & Family Science

Major

Human Development & Family Science

First Advisor

Rob Weisskirch

Abstract

Parents and educators of children, adolescents, and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often lack education on how to get individuals with ASD engaged in adequate physical activity and beneficial exercise specifically for individuals with ASD. People with Autism benefit from exercise, which promotes emotional regulation, improved cognition, self-efficacy, and other physical benefits (Carey et al., 2022). Typical exercise activities may not be practical for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder because they often lack coordination and can get overwhelmed by the stimulation involved with exercise. When parents and educators learn how to provide an environment suitable for safe and adaptive physical activity, individuals with Autism will have health and behavioral benefits, and parents and educators may see social-emotional and psychomotor improvement in the individual with ASD. Therefore, I have created a 90-minute workshop on practical exercises and adapted physical activities for people caring for individuals with ASD, families affected by Autism, and Special Education professionals at the Salinas Adult School in Salinas, California.

Comments

My capstone project has inspired me to combine two passions: coaching and people with Autism. I plan to start a non-profit organization to open a workout gym to help this population receive the exercise they need. Adaptive physical activity is incredibly beneficial to their social-emotional regulation needs. I hope to be instrumental in providing this service to my community.

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Available for download on Thursday, December 31, 2065

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