“Loved it from the Start, Loved it in the Middle, Loved it at the End”: The Effects of a Specialized Physical Activity Program on a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Authors

  • Bella Yanovsky Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON
  • Hailey A. O'Neil Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON
  • Paula C. Fletcher Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/PALAESTRA-2025-V40-I2-13682

Keywords:

Physical activity, autism, qualitative study

Abstract

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently encounter barriers to participating in inclusive physical activity. This qualitative case study, grounded in interpretive phenomenology, explored the lived experience of a child with ASD engaged in Movin’ and Groovin,’ an adaptive physical activity program designed for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. One-on-one semi-structured interviews and background questionnaires were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to capture diverse perspectives. Three key themes emerged: (1) “She has just come out of her shell so much,” (2) Reciprocity: “Just treating everyone like family,” and (3) “M&G lets me do my own thing.” These insights contribute to understanding how inclusive physical activity programs can create empowering environments that support holistic development in children with ASD and other neurodevelopmental challenges, informing best practices for program design and implementation. 

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Published

2026-06-22

Issue

Vol. 40 No. 2 (2026)

Section

Feature Articles

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