Building Confidence Through Motion: Physical Activity in Autism Therapy

As therapists, we often look for that special key to help a child connect, focus, or learn. For many of my clients, that key has been movement. Physical activity does so much more than build strength — it unlocks communication, reduces anxiety, and helps children feel in control of their bodies.

One of my clients used to avoid most structured tasks. But when we started using “animal walks” between goals, he smiled, laughed, and learned faster. That moment reminded me how movement opens doors no worksheet ever could.

Why Physical Activity Matters in Autism Therapy

When we think of autism therapy, we often picture structured ABA sessions focused on communication or behavior skills. But movement is a hidden powerhouse within therapy.

Research consistently shows that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to have lower physical activity levels compared to their neurotypical peers.

A 2020 study published in Autism Research found that children with ASD were nearly 50% less likely to meet daily physical activity guidelines than other children. That’s significant — because regular movement doesn’t just build strength or coordination. It supports learning, emotional regulation, and social skills.

In my own sessions, I’ve seen how a short movement break can help a child refocus, calm down, or re-engage with challenging tasks. Physical activity becomes both a tool for self-regulation and a vehicle for learning.

The Science Behind Movement and Learning

Brain-Body Connection

Movement activates multiple regions of the brain — especially those responsible for attention, memory, and executive function. For children with autism, engaging the body can help “wake up” the brain and make learning stick.

Think of it like this: when we move, we increase oxygen flow to the brain, which helps improve alertness and readiness to learn. According to research from the CDC, regular physical activity enhances concentration and reduces disruptive behaviors in children with developmental disorders.

Sensory Regulation Through Movement

Many children on the autism spectrum experience challenges with sensory processing. They might seek movement (spinning, jumping, or running) to regulate their bodies — or they may avoid it if it feels overwhelming.

Physical activity within ABA therapy can help children find balance. For example:

• Heavy work activities (like pushing, pulling, or climbing) can provide calming deep pressure input.
• Rhythmic activities (like swinging or bouncing) help organize the sensory system.
• Coordination games (like catching or hopping) build motor planning and focus.

When movement is thoughtfully integrated into therapy, it helps children feel more comfortable in their bodies and more ready to learn.

How Physical Activity Supports Key Areas of Development

Let’s explore some of the main ways movement can strengthen growth in children with autism — based on both research and real-life results.

1. Improving Communication and Social Skills

Physical play often creates natural opportunities for connection. When a child throws a ball to a peer or waits for a turn on the slide, they’re practicing essential social skills in a fun, low-pressure way.

In therapy, I like to incorporate cooperative games — such as “Simon Says,” obstacle courses, or balloon toss — to work on:

• Turn-taking and joint attention
• Following directions
• Eye contact and imitation

A 2019 study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that structured physical activity programs led to measurable improvements in social interaction and communication for children with ASD. That’s powerful proof that movement truly supports connection.

2. Enhancing Focus and Reducing Challenging Behaviors

Many parents tell me their child struggles to sit still or stay focused during learning tasks. Movement can help with that, too.

Short bursts of physical activity — even 5 to 10 minutes — can help release energy and increase concentration. Activities like yoga poses, stretching, or jumping jacks are great “reset” tools between therapy goals.

From an ABA perspective, physical activity can also reduce stereotypic behaviors (like hand-flapping or pacing) by providing an appropriate outlet for movement needs. In one study, moderate exercise was shown to decrease self-stimulatory behaviors in children with autism for up to 90 minutes afterward.

3. Supporting Emotional Regulation

Movement has a natural calming effect. Exercise releases endorphins and helps balance stress hormones — something that’s beneficial for every child, especially those with sensory or emotional challenges.

In therapy, I often pair movement with relaxation strategies. For example, after an energetic activity, we might slow down with deep breathing, gentle stretches, or sensory play. Over time, this teaches children to recognize how movement can help them feel better and regulate their emotions more independently.

4. Building Motor Skills and Confidence

Many children with autism have differences in motor planning, balance, and coordination. Physical activity offers the perfect platform to strengthen these skills — while boosting confidence along the way.

Whether it’s hopping on one foot, climbing a small ladder, or learning to catch, every physical milestone matters. And when a child feels proud of what their body can do, it carries over into other areas — from trying new foods to using new words.

Simple ideas for building motor skills through play:

• Animal walks (bear crawl, crab walk, frog jumps)
• Mini obstacle courses
• Dancing to favorite songs
• Throwing and catching soft balls
• Scooter board or balance beam play

The key is to make it fun — because when kids enjoy what they’re doing, learning follows naturally.