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Visual Tools for Teaching Soccer to Children with Autism

By Lisa Jo Rudy, About.com

Updated: January 05, 2009

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Prepare to Include Children with Autism in Your Soccer Game

What does it take to include a child with autism in a game of soccer? Here are a few hints and tips:
  • Know that children with autism can have a tough time processing language. That means that if you say something once, they probably won't take in your meaning and respond. You'll need to say the same thing several times, and use visuals to help break down the information.
  • Know that children with autism have a hard time imitating. That means that telling a child with autism to "watch me and do what I do" may not be effective. You may need to give him step-by-step instruction, providing physical and visual help as you go along.
  • Know that children with autism may not have the same level of strength or coordination as other children their age. Even if they don't do a terrific job of dribbling or passing, it's important to provide positive feedback and constructive support.
  • Know that children with autism have a tough time reading body language. You may need to tell them how to tell that another child is ready for the ball or about to pass the ball to them.
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