Heart Rate Profiles of Children With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder in Response to Physical Play: A Preliminary Investigation

Authors

  • Casey M Breslin Temple University
  • Mary E. Rudisill Auburn University
  • Danielle W Wadsworth Auburn University

Keywords:

physical activity, preschool policy, children with disabilities

Abstract

In this study, the heart rate response of children with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exposed to outdoor free play sessions during preschool was examined. Participants (n = 7; four children with ASD and three children who show typical development) wore Actiheart heart rate monitors during 6 school days. Using a single-subject design, the researchers found that children with and without ASD demonstrated a similar heart rate response to an outdoor free play period and similar participation as measured using PAHR-25 and PAHR-50 indexes. These children did not engage in adequate amounts of moderate to vigorous physical activity during free play. Thus, interventions should be developed to determine best practices for children with and without ASD to participate in adequate amounts of moderate to vigorous physical activity during free play.

Author Biography

Casey M Breslin, Temple University

Assistant Professor within the Department of Kinesiology

Published

2015-01-13

Issue

Section

Articles