Why Movement Matters: The Role of Movement in the ESDM and How It Enhances Learning
Let’s explore why movement matters so much in ESDM sessions and how it helps children with autism engage and learn more effectively.
When we think of therapy for children with autism, we often imagine activities like puzzles, drawing, and social games. But did you know that movement is just as important in therapy? In the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), physical activity plays a crucial role in helping children learn and engage better. Movement-based activities like climbing, bouncing on a gym ball, or even just jumping around aren’t just for fun – they’re essential for learning.
The Importance of Movement
Children naturally love to move. Whether it’s running, jumping, or climbing, physical activity is a huge part of their world. For children with autism, movement can help them stay calm, focused, and ready to learn. In ESDM sessions, therapists use movement-based activities to help children activate their bodies and minds.
Movement helps children in many ways:
- It reduces stress: Physical activity releases energy and reduces feelings of stress and anxiety. When children feel calm, they’re more open to learning new things.
- It improves focus: Movement can help children focus better. After moving their bodies, they’re often more attentive and ready to engage in learning activities.
- It builds motor skills: Physical activities like climbing, jumping, and bouncing help develop motor skills. These skills are important for everyday tasks, like dressing, writing, and playing with friends.
- It supports sensory integration: Movement helps children process sensory information better. For children with autism, who may struggle with sensory processing, physical activities can help them feel more comfortable in their environment.
How ESDM Uses Movement to Enhance Learning
In an ESDM session, movement is more than just a way to burn off energy – it’s a powerful tool for learning. Therapists use physical activities to help children engage with their environment and stay motivated throughout the session. Movement helps children transition between different activities and keeps their interest levels high.
Here’s how movement fits into an ESDM session:
- Starting with Movement: Many sessions start with a movement-based activity. This could be something like bouncing on a gym ball or playing a simple game that involves jumping or running. This helps the child get into the right state of mind for learning. It also builds a positive connection between the child and the therapist, making the session feel fun and engaging from the start.
- Incorporating Movement Throughout the Session: Movement isn’t just limited to the beginning of the session. Therapists include physical activities throughout the session to keep the child engaged. For example, after a tabletop activity like a puzzle, the therapist might suggest a movement-based game. This keeps the session dynamic and helps the child stay focused.
- Using Movement to Teach: Physical activities are also used to teach specific skills. For example, climbing on gym equipment can help children develop motor skills and build strength. Bouncing on a gym ball might help with balance and coordination. Even a simple game of catch can teach important social skills, like taking turns and making eye contact.
- Calming and Refocusing: If a child becomes overwhelmed or distracted, movement can help them calm down and refocus. A short break for physical activity can reset their energy levels and get them ready to continue with the session. This helps prevent frustration and keeps the session on track.
Real-Life Benefits of Movement in ESDM
The benefits of incorporating movement into ESDM sessions go beyond the therapy room. When children engage in physical activities during therapy, they often carry those skills into their everyday lives. For example, a child who practises climbing and balancing in therapy may become more confident on the playground. A child who learns to bounce on a gym ball to manage their energy might use similar strategies to stay calm at home.
Movement also helps children with autism feel more in control of their bodies. This can improve their ability to focus on tasks, manage their emotions, and participate in social activities. The skills they develop through movement-based activities build a strong foundation for learning and growth in other areas.
How You Can Support Your Child’s Movement at Home
Movement doesn’t have to be limited to therapy sessions. You can incorporate physical activities into your child’s daily routine to support their development. Here are some simple ways to encourage movement at home:
- Play games that involve running, jumping, or climbing: Outdoor games like tag or obstacle courses are great for getting your child moving and building motor skills.
- Use household items for physical play: You don’t need special equipment to encourage movement. Pillows, cushions, or even a ball can be used for fun, movement-based activities.
- Include movement in daily routines: Simple activities like walking to the park, riding a bike, or playing at the playground all help your child get the physical activity they need.
Supporting your child’s need for movement helps them stay balanced and ready to learn in all areas of life.
Conclusion
Movement plays a vital role in the Early Start Denver Model and helps children with autism engage more effectively in therapy. By incorporating physical activities into sessions, therapists can help children stay calm, focused, and motivated to learn. Movement-based activities also support the development of important motor skills and sensory processing abilities.
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we believe in the power of movement to enhance learning. Our Certified ESDM therapists carefully plan each ESDM session to include activities that keep children engaged and help them make progress. Whether it’s bouncing on a gym ball, climbing, or running, movement helps children build the skills they need to thrive.
If you want to learn more about how movement-based activities can support your child’s development, contact OneOnOne Children’s Therapy. Our clinics in Bondi Junction and Mascot are here to help your child grow and succeed in a fun, supportive environment.
