“Why does my child struggle to catch a ball or hold a pencil when other kids seem to do it so easily?” If you’ve ever asked yourself that question, you’re not alone. As someone who has worked closely with both neurotypical children and children on the autism spectrum, I’ve witnessed how motor development can vary widely—and how it deeply impacts daily life, confidence, and learning. Understanding these differences isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. Because when we know what’s behind the challenges, we can support growth in a way that truly helps.

What Are Motor Skills and Why Do They Matter?

Motor skills refer to the abilities that allow us to move and control our bodies. They fall into two categories:

• Gross motor skills: Large movements involving arms, legs, and trunk (e.g., walking, running, jumping).
• Fine motor skills: Small, precise movements, especially of the hands and fingers (e.g., writing, buttoning a shirt, using utensils).

Both are crucial for independence, play, and learning. When a child struggles with motor skills, the effects ripple into their self-esteem, academic performance, and social interactions.

How Autism Impacts Motor Skill Development

1. Motor Delays Are Common in Autism—But Often Overlooked

According to a 2020 study published in Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience, up to 87% of children with autism experience motor delays or impairments. Yet these often receive less attention than communication or sensory challenges.

“We used to think of autism as primarily a social disorder,” says Dr. Maria Kim, a paediatric neurologist. “Now we understand that movement and coordination difficulties are part of the neurodevelopmental picture.”

In my experience as a physiotherapy student working with early intervention programmes, parents often come in with concerns about speech or behaviour, and only later realise the extent of their child’s motor struggles.

2. Coordination and Balance Are Often Affected

Simple tasks like climbing stairs, hopping on one foot, or catching a ball can be difficult. This stems from:

• Poor proprioception (awareness of body in space)
• Weak muscle tone (hypotonia)
• Reduced bilateral coordination (using both sides of the body in sync)

One eight-year-old I worked with, Ali, avoided playground games not because he was shy, but because running made him feel unsteady. With targeted exercises over time, his confidence and participation improved markedly.

3. Fine Motor Challenges Can Impact Learning

Many autistic children find it hard to grip a pencil, use scissors, or perform tasks that require hand precision. Occupational therapists often step in to support this, using activities that strengthen finger muscles and improve dexterity.

“Handwriting is more than just a school skill,” explains OT specialist Jane Linton. “It’s about communicating ideas, completing homework, and feeling competent.”

Research from Autism Research and Treatment (2016) confirms that fine motor impairments can predict future academic difficulties if not addressed early.

4. Repetitive Behaviours and Motor Planning

Some children on the spectrum engage in repetitive movements (called “stimming”), such as flapping hands or rocking. While often harmless, these patterns can sometimes interfere with learning new motor tasks.

Additionally, many autistic children struggle with motor planning (dyspraxia), which makes it hard to learn sequences of movement—like tying shoelaces or brushing teeth.

In therapy, breaking down tasks into visual or step-by-step sequences often helps.

What Contributes to Motor Delays in Autism?

– Neurological Differences

Brain imaging studies have shown that children with autism often have differences in areas like the cerebellum (which controls coordination) and motor cortex. These differences affect how signals are sent and received.

– Sensory Processing Issues

Sensory overload (from noise, light, or touch) can interfere with a child’s ability to focus on movement. Imagine trying to learn to ride a bike while someone shines a flashlight in your eyes and blasts music next to your ear.

– Reduced Social Motivation

Motor development is often driven by imitation and play. If a child struggles with social cues or avoids peer interaction, they may miss out on natural movement learning.

How to Support Motor Development in Autistic Children

Here are some evidence-based, practical strategies:

1. Early Intervention Is Key

Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and play-based movement classes can help strengthen motor foundations. The earlier these supports begin, the more progress is likely.

2. Incorporate Visual Supports

Use pictures, videos, or step-by-step charts. One family I worked with used laminated cards for a “get ready for school” routine that included brushing teeth and putting on shoes. It reduced frustration dramatically.

3. Adapt the Environment

• Use non-slip mats, stabilising chairs, or pencil grips.
• Break large motor tasks into smaller achievable steps.
• Avoid noisy, visually busy rooms for motor-based learning.

4. Celebrate Small Wins

Motor progress can be slow and subtle. Did your child zip up their jacket today? That’s worth cheering.

Real-World Case: Aidan’s Journey

Aidan was diagnosed with autism at age 3. He didn’t walk until 22 months and avoided swings and slides at preschool. With weekly physiotherapy, sensory integration activities, and lots of trial-and-error, he gradually gained confidence. By 7, he was riding a two-wheeled bike—a milestone that brought tears to his mum’s eyes.

His story isn’t unique. With the right support, many autistic children make meaningful progress in motor skills.

FAQs:

Q: Are motor delays always present in autism?
Not always, but they are very common. Every child on the spectrum presents differently.

Q: Can motor issues improve over time?
Yes, especially with early, consistent support from therapists and caregivers.

Q: Are motor delays part of the diagnostic criteria for autism?
Not officially, but they are recognised as a frequent co-occurring feature.

Q: What professionals help with motor development?
Occupational therapists, physiotherapists, developmental paediatricians, and sometimes speech therapists.

Final Thoughts: Movement Is More Than Muscle

Motor skills are about more than coordination; they’re about independence, expression, and self-worth. Understanding how autism affects motor development allows us to offer better support, tailored therapy, and most importantly, empathy.

If you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist working with an autistic child, keep asking questions. Keep adapting. And know that even small steps forward are worth celebrating.

Have you supported a child with motor skill challenges? What strategies have worked for you? Let’s keep the conversation going below.