A new study on autism from Tel Aviv University finds that outdoor challenge-based interventions might be effective in reducing the symptoms and severity of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The researchers found significant improvements in the participating children’s social cognition, social motivation, and autistic mannerism after they completed an outdoor adventure program. This research outlines a new path for enhancing the social skills and creating new communication paths for children with ASD.
Published in Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, the study was led by Professor Ditza Antebi-Zachor from the Pediatric Department at TAU and Professor Ben Itzchak from Ariel University.
About ASD
1 in 68 children in the United States in diagnosed with ASD each year. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social and communicative impairments, alongside restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests. The disorder can be harmful not only to the child but also the family environment. New research shows that early diagnosis and treatment can lead to significant impact on cognitive function and social skills of children with ASD.
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The Study
The autism study involved 51 child participants from 7 special education kindergartens in Tel Aviv, conducted in cooperation with ALUT and ETGARIM, Israeli nonprofits. The children were all aged 3-7, and 30 participated in the intervention group, joining the outdoor adventure program (OAP).
The OAP consisted of 13 weekly sessions involving challenge-based activities with instructors. The sessions were 30 minutes long and utilized outdoor fitness equipment, singing, and moving between activities. The program required the children to communicate between themselves and the instructors throughout, encouraging active participation.
The children were measured using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS)—before and after the OAP.
The Results
The study’s data shows that the intervention group who participated in the outdoor adventure program benefited from the interpersonal relationships and adventure skills they learned. The intervention was effective in increasing the children’s SRS and helping them with social and cognitive function.
The study is just a first step in outdoor adventure program-based interventions for children with ASD. With this study showing efficacy, there will likely be more research into this area and how early intervention can help children with ASD.
