Samurai Karate Studio in South Carolina has added a martial arts curriculum for students with autism. Sensei Chris Feldt was encouraged to add the classes because one of his adult students has a son with autism who took interest in karate. An applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapist helped Feldt develop a curriculum that includes exercise and social skills. Feldt explains that martial arts is "about learning self discipline, focus and concentration and I do not believe we should treat our Autistic children any differently. Lastly, we hope that these classes will provide a social setting for these children to meet and have fun with other children."
Autism Therapy: martial arts
definition of martial arts: not yet defined.
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Thomas Cameron Stuart, a 23 year-old with autism, has earned his brown belt and is on his way to earn his black belt in martial arts. Stuart has had an interest in Japanese culture and found the Tenkobushi Martial Arts studio near his home in California. Stuart's instructor, Stephen McGovern, has developed a martial arts program specifically for Stuart. McGovern says that the practice of Ninjutsu and swordsmanship provides increased social, emotional, and physical skills for Stuart. In addition, Stuart participates in a group class and learns interaction with his neuro-typical peers. Stuart's grandmother has noticed an increased mental focus, ability to concentrate, and social skills in her grandson.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) may be a useful intervention therapy for children with Asperger syndrome. An Ohio mom has found that her son with Asperger's enjoys the physical therapy aspect of MMA as well as the social interaction. MMA has built his confidence and self-esteem. His instructor explains that, "martial arts are great for children with all types of disorders. It's a built-in attention system....where you have certain cues or attention anchors, to get kids' attention."
Lisa Chin, founder of FirefliesNY, uses her training as a special education teacher, Tae Kwon Do black belt, and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapist to reach out to children with autism. She has found that the well-established ABA one-on-one intervention integrates with the physical aspects of the martial arts. FirefliesNY allows for exercise and socialization. Chin says of FirefliesNY: "Sessions involve a blend of TaeKwonDo, music/movement, balance, stretching, and breathing exercises all guided by Applied Behavior Analysis."
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Synonyms for martial arts include: karate, tae kwan do
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Martial Arts Therapy
Mar 4, 2009 by AnonymousLisa Chin is the owner/founder of Fireflies in NY City - it is a martial arts therapy center for children with special needs.