Family Fun

Look for activities that the whole family can enjoy. If being active is something they see you enjoying your child is more likely to get in good habits too.

• Walk whenever you can. Go a little bit further, a little bit faster, to get a little bit breathless and the heart beating a little bit faster.
• Head to the local park for fresh air and some playtime.
• Swimming is an activity that most people can enjoy regardless of physical ability and the whole family can join in. 

All of us are more likely to keep active if it is fun and something we enjoy. So use the things your child enjoys;

• If they like computer games - choose active ones that get them moving
• If they like trains or animals - take a walk to go and see them
• If they like music or singing - dance around the kitchen or have family discos

Activities For Different Needs 

Different children will have different needs and preferences when it comes to activities and sports. Finding out what works for them can be a case of working out what they enjoy and feel comfortable with, as well as trying activities that stimulate their senses or relax them. 

Different types of exercise can:

• Provide dopamine, which some neurodivergent children can naturally lack
• Strengthen muscles or relieve muscles for children with repetitive tics
• Provide a routine and stability to their day
• Build up motor skills
• Provide sensory stimulation and feedback for your child

Examples of types of activities for children who might struggle with sports could include:

• Sensory circuits - A series of activities include different movements such as alerting activities, organising activities (which use coordination of mind and body) and calming activities such as pressure or pushing.
• Sensory Walks - A slightly structured series of observations when you are walking to school, for example, 'What can you see?', 'What can you hear?', 'What about funny movements……Can you hop? Stretch your arms up in the air. Can you jump along or walk like a crab? 
• Stretching - Exercises that involve stretching the body can also help to ease any soreness of overworked muscles brought on by tics, or repetitive stimming.
• Aerobic Exercise - Aerobic activity in particular is a great way to regulate dopamine levels. Examples of aerobic exercise are running, swimming, cycling, brisk walking and high-impact exercise classes like HIIT or Zumba.
• Solo sports - It's useful to remember that for some with additional needs, exercise can be difficult, especially if they have dyspraxia, physical disabilities or poor coordination. Some may have had negative experiences, like being selected last for sports teams in PE at school. If they dislike team sports, they could try swimming, trampolining or walking.

Everyone has different preferences, and all exercise is good. So, trying out different sessions can help you and your child find something they feel comfortable with to get them moving their bodies.