16 Week Physical Literacy Special Needs Development Curriculum

Introduction and Synopsis

Purpose of the Curriculum:

This 16-week curriculum is designed to support children with autism and cerebral palsy in developing critical physical, cognitive, and motor skills through movement-based activities. It aligns with the goals of the ESA program in Arizona, emphasizing personalized, inclusive, and evidence-based approaches to physical literacy, strength, and skill development.

The program incorporates activities that foster physical growth, improve cognitive function, and build confidence in movement, tailored to the unique needs of each child. By addressing foundational skills like balance, coordination, and strength, it provides a pathway for children to enhance their quality of life and independence through active engagement.

Key Goals:

1. Promote physical literacy by teaching fundamental movement patterns.

2. Build strength and stability to improve motor control and reduce spasticity.

3. Enhance cognitive function through movement-based problem-solving and focus activities.

4. Develop functional skills that support daily activities and recreation.

Structure Overview:

The curriculum progresses across four stages: foundational movements, strength-building, cognitive skill integration, and comprehensive skill application. Each stage builds on the last, offering adaptable exercises to meet the individual needs and abilities of children with autism and cerebral palsy.

The program concludes with a detailed assessment of progress and a curated equipment list to support ongoing practice at home or in a therapy setting. Research notes included throughout reinforce the benefits of movement for special-needs children, grounding the curriculum in proven methodologies.

This curriculum is more than a physical fitness plan—it’s a holistic tool to help children thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Week-by-Week Outline

1. Weeks 1-4: Foundation of Physical Literacy and Basic Movement Skills

• Objectives: Introduce and assess basic movements like walking, reaching, and balance.

• Activities: Guided stretching, low-impact cardio (e.g., slow walking or gentle stepping exercises), and gentle balance exercises using supports.

• Assessment: Record initial movement abilities, paying attention to how the child adapts to movement cues.

• Research Notes: Studies show that even light movement helps children with autism and cerebral palsy increase coordination and spatial awareness.

2. Weeks 5-8: Introduction to Strength-Building Activities

• Objectives: Develop basic strength through low-resistance and body-weight exercises.

• Activities: Light resistance band exercises, guided body-weight exercises (e.g., seated leg lifts), and hand-grip strength training.

• Assessment: Track progress in strength (e.g., repetitions or resistance levels).

• Research Notes: Evidence suggests that progressive resistance exercises help improve motor control and can reduce spasticity in children with cerebral palsy.

3. Weeks 9-12: Cognitive Engagement and Skill Development Through Movement

• Objectives: Introduce more complex movements requiring focus and coordination.

• Activities: Movement games like Simon Says, or gentle obstacle courses to practice focus and memory. Introduce simple sports skills like rolling a ball.

• Assessment: Observe the child’s response to instructions and note any cognitive or motor skill improvements.

• Research Notes: Physical activity has been linked to cognitive improvements, especially in focus and working memory in children with autism.

4. Weeks 13-16: Integration of Physical Literacy, Strength, and Cognitive Skills

• Objectives: Reinforce the previous skills with combined activities that require balance, strength, and focus.

• Activities: Circuit-style activities that incorporate balance, strength, and cognitive tasks (e.g., balancing on one foot while holding a lightweight ball).

• Assessment: Document the progress achieved since the start of the program, including improvements in balance, focus, and task completion.

• Research Notes: Studies indicate that integrating cognitive challenges with physical movement can improve both cognitive and motor outcomes in children with developmental disabilities.

Curriculum Details

Each week’s lessons would include:

• Warm-up and Cool-down Activities: Focused on safe movement preparation and winding down.

• Adaptable Activities: Variations for different abilities, with modifications to accommodate each child’s needs.

• Parental/Instructor Notes: Tips for helping the child complete the exercises, along with suggested goals.

Here’s a list based on what would support the activities

Equipment List

1. Foam Rollers

• Helps with gentle muscle relaxation, especially for kids with tight muscles or spasticity.

• Amazon Link

2. Balance Pads

• Useful for balance training and introducing stability exercises in a safe, supported way.