How to Support a Child with Autism in Team Sports

Why Sports Are Beneficial for Kids with Autism

Participating in sports can help children with autism in many ways:

Improves motor skills – Enhances coordination, balance, and overall physical fitness.
Builds social skills – Encourages teamwork, turn-taking, and communication in a structured setting.
Provides routine – Many children with autism thrive on structure, and sports offer regular training schedules.
Boosts confidence – Achieving small goals in sports can enhance self-esteem and independence.
Supports emotional regulation – Physical activity can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and help with emotional self-regulation.

Challenges Children with Autism May Face in Team Sports

While sports offer great benefits, children with autism may encounter difficulties, such as:

Sensory overload – Loud whistles, shouting, and bright lights can be overwhelming.
Difficulty understanding social cues – Some children may struggle with sharing, turn-taking, or following verbal instructions.
Transitions and unpredictability – Changes in routine, unexpected game changes, or new teammates can cause stress.
Fine and gross motor challenges – Some children with ASD may have delays in coordination and muscle control.

The key to success is adapting the sporting environment to meet the child’s individual needs.

How to Support a Child with Autism in Team Sports

Choose the Right Sport for Your Child

Not all team sports are the same. Some may be too fast-paced or unpredictable, while others allow for more structure and individual focus within a team setting.

Best team sports for children with autism:

Swimming (relay teams) – Offers individual focus with a team aspect.

Martial arts (e.g., karate, judo, taekwondo) – Structured routines, personal progress, and clear rules.

Athletics (relay teams, shot put, discus, etc.) – Emphasises individual achievements within a team.

Soccer, basketball, or netball (with modified programs) – Encourages teamwork with proper support.

Tip: Ask your child what interests them! Giving them a choice increases motivation and enjoyment.

Find an Autism-Friendly Sports Program

Australia has several inclusive sports programs designed for children with autism, including:

Sports4All – Helps local clubs become more inclusive for kids with disabilities.
AllPlay Footy (AFL) – An inclusive AFL program that supports children with autism.
Special Olympics Australia – Provides sports opportunities for children with intellectual disabilities, including autism.
Modified junior sports leagues – Many clubs offer beginner-friendly teams with extra support.

Tip: Check with your local council or disability support organisation for sports clubs with autism-friendly programs.

Communicate with Coaches & Team Members

Before your child joins a team, talk to the coach about their needs. Some key things to discuss:

Sensory sensitivities – Does your child struggle with loud noises or bright lights?
Preferred communication style – Do they respond better to visual instructions rather than verbal?
Routine & structure – Can the coach provide a predictable routine to reduce anxiety?
Breaks & downtime – If your child needs a quiet space to regulate emotions, ensure there is a designated area.

Tip: Some children may benefit from a sports mentor or buddy to help them understand the game and feel supported.

Use Visual Supports & Clear Instructions

Many children with autism process information better through visual cues rather than verbal instructions. Try these strategies:

Visual schedules – Show pictures or diagrams of what to expect during practice.
Video modeling – Watching videos of a sport beforehand can help them understand the game.
Step-by-step instructions – Break down complex moves into simple steps with images.

Tip: Coaches can use hand signals or picture cards to reinforce verbal commands.

Provide Sensory-Friendly Modifications

Since sensory sensitivities can make sports overwhelming, consider these adjustments:

Noise-cancelling headphones – Reduce loud whistles and shouting.
Comfortable clothing – Avoid itchy uniforms or restrictive gear.
Extra transition time – Allow additional time for warming up and adjusting to new environments.

Tip: Some sports programs offer sensory-friendly practice sessions with lower noise and fewer players.

Focus on Social Skills & Teamwork

For children with autism, social interaction in team sports can be challenging. Help them develop skills such as:

Turn-taking – Practicing drills that require passing the ball to a teammate.
Understanding winning & losing – Using social stories to explain sportsmanship.
Reading body language – Teaching them how to recognise teammates' signals or cues.

Tip: Role-playing sports scenarios at home can help prepare them for real-game situations.

Be Patient & Celebrate Small Wins

Success in team sports isn’t just about winning games—it’s about personal growth. Encourage your child by:

Celebrating effort, not just performance – Praise participation and progress.
Keeping a sports journal – Track achievements to build confidence.
Letting them progress at their own pace – Avoid pushing them into uncomfortable situations.

Tip: If a traditional team sport is too overwhelming, consider peer-based programs where children can develop skills in a relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts

Supporting a child with autism in team sports requires understanding, patience, and adaptability. With the right sport, an inclusive environment, and strong communication between parents, coaches, and teammates, children with ASD can enjoy, succeed, and thrive in sports.

Remember: Every child is unique. Focus on what they enjoy, provide gentle encouragement, and celebrate their small victories.