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Quick thread on Autism and Cycling:
As a teacher of nearly two decades and someone who has had a particular focus on the needs of children with ASD I’m appalled by the misinformation from a certain Limerick person on the issue over recent weeks.
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As a teacher of nearly two decades and someone who has had a particular focus on the needs of children with ASD I’m appalled by the misinformation from a certain Limerick person on the issue over recent weeks.
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Study after study show the immense benefits that children with ASD get from cycling. They can span both social and motor skills and can act as a huge catalyst for inclusion for many.
Let’s look at this study’s conclusions for example:
https://www.shs-conferences.org/articles/shsconf/pdf/2018/09/shsconf_erpa2018_01048.pdf
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Let’s look at this study’s conclusions for example:
https://www.shs-conferences.org/articles/shsconf/pdf/2018/09/shsconf_erpa2018_01048.pdf
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When the conclusion to this study is that cycling will allow children with ASD “to grow and to maintain a happier life” it’s hard to see how anyone with the best interests of these kids at heart could possibly argue against it.
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This article sums up quite a lot of my experience teaching kids with ASD. Some really clear and cast iron facts on the benefits of cycling for these kids.
https://www.welovecycling.com/wide/2019/04/11/how-cycling-helps-children-with-autism/
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https://www.welovecycling.com/wide/2019/04/11/how-cycling-helps-children-with-autism/
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This hits all the major points on the head. Special mention to the sensory and motor skills development which is a key reason that occupational therapists recommend cycling as a core activity for kids with ASD.
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Social skills and inclusion are a key challenge for these kids as they progress into adolescence. Mental health, resilience and social skills are strengthened by the connections that cycling can provide.
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Here’s a few guides for parents, guardians and teachers to browse for tips.
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/teach-autistic-child-ride-bike/
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https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/teach-autistic-child-ride-bike/
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I really hope certain people look at the actual facts and best practice when it comes to the benefits cycling bring to kids with ASD. The weaponising of children to peddle a false narrative is appalling. Please educate yourself and do better for these kids.
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