Martial Arts Therapy for Aspergers

Using martial arts therapy for Aspergers patients isn't right for everyone. The same difficulty that faces many parents of children with autism spectrum disorder applies here: not all therapies work for all children, even children who seem to have the same characteristics of the disorder. However, with careful evaluation and testing, it's possible that some form of martial arts therapy for Aspergers will produce great results.

Activity ideas for autistic kids

Many parents discover the potential of therapy using martial arts by accident - for example, taking their child to a sibling's class or seeing a free demonstration at a mall. The methods of teaching in many martial arts like karate include very set and clear moves, learned by imitation, and a clear heirarchy and unambiguous mode of behavior in the class. Experts such as Dr. Anne Milanese of the Connecticut Children's Medical Center cautions that even these apparent advantages don't work for everyone with autism. "...we need to make sure the activity is desirable and fun for the child," she told a Connecticut news station in an interview. She noted that some children will not thrive in "imitative" environments, and will resort to behaviors designed to avoid the activity if they are forced or even encouraged into something they don't like.

She does go on to say that exercise in general is a good thing for any child, and that there is evidence that a "gross motor skill" workout that builds up a sweat for the child can positively influence their ability to stay organized and focus for the rest of the day. Martial arts just may not be the answer for everyone - other activities such as swimming provide the workout without having the added social and behaviorial pressure. She recommends "the activities give 'to' the children rather than demanding 'from' the children."

With those cautions in mind, there are still a wide variety of martial arts styles and pedagogies that might be a good influence for a child with Aspergers. Almost all dojos (martial arts schools) provide the ability to observe or even participate in introductory classes for free, and this is a good way to see if the style, the teacher, and the environment are conducive to a child's therapy. Keep in mind that some acclimation may be necessary; some parents have found that their child could only go to a few minutes of the first lessons, but as time went on the classes became easier, until they were able to stay for the entire time. If a "hard" art like karate or tae kwon do doesn't seem to work, you may want to experiment with alternatives like aikido, t'ai chi chuan, or even a mixture of dance, music, and martial arts like capoeira.

The benefits of the classes for those children who respond to this form of therapy include

• improved social skills
• self control
• self confidence
• discipline
• coordination

It is certainly a good idea to talk with the sensei (instructor) outside of the class about the specific needs and goals for your child. Just as in a normalized school environment, helping the teachers and other students understand the different learning styles and strategies necessary for Aspergers can turn everyone into a team working together for a common goal. In many cases, this results in not only the Aspergers child learning but also the class itself achieving a greater level of purpose and commitment to the subject. Several martial arts schools around the country have even begun offering specific classes for children with autism, with instructors who are aware of the challenges and eager to meet them. The Summit Academy in Cleveland, Ohio is a good example, sponsored by Greater Cleveland Asperger Support.

While it is certainly not right for everyone, the therapy offered by martial arts may be exactly what your child needs, and is worth looking into.

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