Down syndrome, a neurodevelopmental condition caused by a triplicated 21st chromosome, often presents with co-occurring developmental conditions such as autism. But diagnosing autism in someone with Down syndrome can be difficult as they have overlapping symptoms.
Motor Skills
Brittany G. Travers, PhD – Slide of the Week
We want to better understand how autistic children with and without attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) differed in their motor skills, sensory features, and daily living skills.
A parent-mediated physical activity intervention helps autistic kids acquire fundamental motor skills
Autistic children show lower physical activity and fundamental motor skills such as running, jumping, or throwing compared to non-autistic children.
Video game improves balance in youth with autism
“We think this video game-based training could be a unique way to help individuals with ASD who have challenges with their balance address these issues,” says Travers, an investigator at UW–Madison’s Waisman Center and an assistant professor of kinesiology.
Video game research shows promise for autism
At the age of 9, Xavier Hansen already has it figured out. Someday, he is going to be the boss. “He has great aspirations to make things,” says his mom, Gail. “His goals are to own a movie theater. He wants to be in charge. If he wants something, he’ll find a way to get it.”