Motor Skills and Executive Function in Autism

This presentation highlights the critical link between motor skills and executive function in children with autism. Motor skills, including gross and fine motor development, are foundational between ages 7-11, affecting activities like handwriting, sports, and social play. Studies show that children with autism often experience delays in motor milestones such as walking and fine motor coordination, with some showing motor skills nearly half their chronological age by 10-12 years old. The key takeaway is that both motor skills and executive function are highly malleable—they can be improved with targeted interventions, practice, and adaptive strategies. Strengthening one area may positively impact the other, supporting better school readiness, daily functioning, and social participation for children with autism.