Motor Skill Development in Autism Spectrum Disorder: New Research, Interventions, and Reviews

For decades, researchers have attempted to understand the different facets of autism spectrum disorder, with much of the emphasis placed on the social aspects of the disorder. While not one of the core features of autism spectrum disorder, recent evidence has pointed to significant movement delays, both fine and gross, in children with autism spectrum disorder. For example, research has shown delays in locomotor skills, object control skills, manual dexterity, upper limb control, and balance. Normative data studies have shown that between 50% to 73% of children with autism spectrum disorder display impairments in motor functioning. Given such consistent and reliable measured delays in all facets of motor functioning, broadly defined, in children with autism spectrum disorder, it is evident that motor ability and motor skills should be considered in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, and moreover that motor ability and motor skills should be examined in relation to other behavioural aspects central to the disorder, and also contemplated in the development of new treatments and interventions.

This Research Topic aims to provide a state of the research in motor functioning and motor skill development in children with autism spectrum disorder, by publishing both original research and review articles. In addition, research articles discussing how motor functioning and motor skills are related to social or cognitive behaviour, as well as how motor skills could be used in the diagnosis, treatment, and intervention (i.e., physical activity, dance, organized games) of autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents will be included.