Participating in sports is beneficial for any child, especially for those on the autism spectrum. Exercise is excellent for the health and the well-being of any individual, young or old. In addition, playing sports and being a part of a team helps teach children important life skills such as teamwork, cooperation, and shows them that there are rewards when there is hard work and dedication involved. Some parents with children on the autism spectrum might be apprehensive about getting them into volleyball or into any sport, but every child is unique and for many autistic children playing sports can become an excellent way for them to overcome obstacles and succeed.
Beach volleyball is a good way for autistic children to learn life skills and have fun at the same time, and is an excellent way to develop their balance, strength, coordination, and instill confidence. If you have an autistic child and have been hesitant about getting him or her into beach volleyball, check out these autistic sports tips that will help your child succeed in any athletic program.
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If your child is not quite ready for a group setting, allow them to practice at home in a stress-free, fun environment. In addition, having private lessons can also help your child build confidence and skill in a private, one on one setting.
2. Communicate with your child’s instructors and coaches and inform them of your child’s diagnosis. Use this opportunity to let them know of your child’s strengths, challenges, triggers and sensitivities.
3. Work out a plan with the coach and your child on how to inform the other members of the team about your child’s diagnosis. You want everyone to be on the same page, so there are no surprises.
4. Since your child may not be able to go at the same pace as other children at first, talk to the coach about breaking drills down into smaller segments so your child does not become