The Development of a Balance Training Board to Improve the Large Muscle Groups in Children with Autism

Abstract

This research is an experimental study aimed at developing a balance training board to promote gross motor skills in children with autism and evaluating its effectiveness. The primary focus is to enhance balance ability, a fundamental skill essential for physical development. The study involved a sample group of eight boys and girls with autism, aged 3 to 6 years, selected based on criteria indicating balance difficulties. The research instruments included questionnaires reviewed by experts in occupational therapy and design, along with evaluation forms and behavioral observation tools in simulated scenarios. The designed balance training board resembles a rocking horse. Its structure is made from 1.5-inch round steel tubing, painted light yellow, measuring 60 cm in width, 70 cm in length, and 90 cm in height. It features two side handles, an anti-slip surface, and a spring-based mechanism under the base, integrated with a balance level measurement device. The intervention was carried out in the form of continuous occupational therapy for four weeks, three days per week, 10 minutes per session. This duration was considered suitable for the attention span and cooperation level of children within this age group. The therapy sessions were observed and evaluated by a professional occupational therapist. The results showed that the children exhibited continuous improvement in their balance abilities. These findings indicate that the developed balance training board is effective in enhancing gross motor function in children with autism.