Effect of aquatic therapy on motor skill and executive function in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Research has demonstrated the positive effects of different types physical activity, especially aquatic therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As such, this study aimed to examine effect a response-oriented approach using exercise ASD on motor skills and executive function. In quasi-experimental design, 40 aged 7–10 years were randomly assigned one two groups: (ROA) group (n=20) or control (CON) (n=20). The Bruininks-Oseretsky Test Motor Proficiency second edition – Short Form (BOTMP-2) Wisconsin Card Sorting (WCST) used assess skill function, respectively. Significant (p≤0.05) differences found between ROA CON groups in receiving (F=38.94, p=0.001) throwing (F=33.05, p=0.001), static balance (F=44.89, p=0.002), dynamic (F=48.51, p=0.010), correct responses (F=3.60, conceptual (F=0.34, p=0.010) perseverative errors (F=1.57, p=0.040). Aquatic was be an effective intervention that it decreases deficits improves This provides families, teachers other specialists optionality may exciting motivational due its approach.