Autism is a complex neurobiological, developmental disorder that is typically diagnosed in childhood and often lasts throughout a person's lifetime. The hallmark characteristics of autism include an impaired ability to communicate and relate to others socially, a restricted range of activities, and repetitive behaviors such as following very specific routines. While the causes of autism are unknown and preventative measures have yet to be discovered, there does exist effective behavioral therapy that can result in significant improvements for many young children with autism. The most widely used behavioral intervention programs focus on developing communication, social, and cognitive skills. However, new research and anecdotal evidence suggest that some alternative therapeutic choices that include sports, exercise, and other physical activities can be a useful adjunct to traditional behavioral interventions, leading to improvement in symptoms, behaviors, and quality of life for individuals with autism.

Studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise can decrease negative, self-stimulating behaviors such as rocking, spinning, or head-banging. It can also decrease self-injurious behaviors and temporarily increase attention span. While the reasons for this are unknown, one theory states that highly structured routines inherent in running or swimming may be similar to the self-stimulating, repetitive behaviors, thus offering a temporary alternative.

Participating in sports also offers social benefits. The benefits of teamwork, collaboration, and friendship are well-documented for typically-developing children. Participation in organized sports offers opportunities to read social cues, coordinate and connect with others, and to develop relationships with peers. Children with autism will need more support in order to succeed in organized sports, but the results can be significant. Many communities offer adapted sports for children with disabilities, and can often accommodate children with autism.It is clear that physical exercise and participation in team sports can be beneficial to children on the autism spectrum. Anything that improves one's physical health will lead to benefits in all areas of life. Physical health, combined with the social opportunities provided by organized sports, can give children with autism an extra edge.

Pittsburgh Flag Football is a perfect fit for a high functioning kid with autism but please keep in mind that your child needs to be able to follow simple commands and be able to function without the assistance of others. To prevent your child and others from being injured we also asked that your child have a level of coordination to perform tasks such as running, catching and throwing at minimum, a basic level.  The following are benefits of flag football.

• Teams are small groups that will allow your child to get focused attention from a coach
• There are positions on the field that require small task to be completed in order to be effective. EX. If your child is the Center some plays may require that position to just snap ball.
• There are various skills levels offered from kids who are exceptional to beginners. We try are best to match kids to their skill level and not necessarily group them age.
• If your child plays multiple seasons we will try and keep you child with the same coach and group of kids this help increase social skills from being a familiar group.

Here is a testimonial from a parent and coach of a child with autism “Pittsburgh Flag Football allowed our son to participate in flag football with his friends and family and also contribute to the game. He was able to play quarterback in several games which allowed him to be vocal which is a touching moment for me and his mother. We love that fact that there are photographers at all the games to capture those special moments. Even though our child may not play at the next level he will always remember this. He even was a part of team that won a championship and was able to get a trophy!!” ~Lamar Russ.

Autism Speaks

Autism Society