Best Sports for Kids with Autism

Not every kid loves soccer.  Yes, it's true, and I'll say it again: not every kid loves soccer.  But don't let your child's difficulty with team sports turn you or your child away from sports or physical fitness!

For kids with autism, team sports like soccer, football, hockey and basketball can be excruciatingly difficult, as they combine non-verbal and verbal communication, face and "mind" reading, complex physical coordination, and a clear grasp of what it means to be a good team member. 

Unless you've found a very supportive coach or a terrific special needs league, you may be worried that your child will grow up to be a couch potato.

But the world is full of ways for your child with autism to have fun and get fit - even if he never really grasps the fine points of heading a ball or passing to a team mate.  Instead of pushing the team sports, consider expanding your horizons to consider the incredible range of sports available to people who are NOT team players.  What are some of the top options? 

Consider...

• Swimming.  This terrific whole-body sport can be enjoyed alone, with the family, or as a part of a team.
• Bowling.  Simple, repetitive and satisfying, it's also a great sport to enjoy in a group or alone.  Leagues are great, too!
• Track and Field.  In the US, track and field is usually reserved for older kids, but kids of any age can learn to run, jump, throw and hurdle.  Even if there's no coach or team in your area, you can always use the high school track during off hours.
• Hiking.  Just like plain old walking, but it's considered a sport if you hike in the woods, heading for a picnic spot or cool lake.
• Martial Arts.  Many kids with autism enjoy the repetitive discipline of martial arts; choose the particular style (judo, tae kwon do, karate) based on the quality of the instructor.

What sports does your child with autism love?  Share your thoughts!