Like everywhere else, special needs children have their own health issues as well- and a fitness plan for them needs to be prepared keeping the same in mind:

Physical exercises schedule for special needs

• Exercises for autism and Asperger’s syndrome:

For children with autism, motor skills don’t come naturally- and, thus, they usually lack in physical exertion; leading to obesity. They should be encouraged to participate in activities with lesser-complex motor skills first. Also, the rules of the activities/games might need a bit of revision, to suit their special needs. Children with Asperger’s usually have speech problems that can be easily corrected by the timely speech therapy.

• Exercises for ADHD:

While ADHD, in itself, doesn’t lead to any physical problems, the impulsivity of the ADHD children can be hazardous in many different ways. They need to be engaged in physical activities that require patience and discipline, like military parades, yoga positions etc. Also, they need to maintain strength and endurance at all times; given the unnatural number of times they are more susceptible to injuries and accidents due to their high-risk behaviors.

• Exercises for cerebral palsy:

While, in itself, cerebral palsy is non-progressive; but not taking proper care of health has been seen to accelerate the occurrences of premature aging, osteoporosis and arthritis. While adaptive equipment, surgical intervention and/or drug therapy are what help the most when the patient is older, a healthier lifestyle with improved cardiovascular conditioning, strength and flexibility work better with children.

 

Dietary needs for special needs children

• Diet for autism and Asperger’s syndrome:

What’s gaining steady credibility about Autism diet is a view that autistic children’s behavior be significantly improved by keeping their diets free of proteins gluten (found in wheat, barley and rye) and casein (present in dairy products.)

Since Asperger’s syndrome and autism vary only in the degree of symptoms and the depth of the condition, the same gluten- and casein-free diet can help children coping with Asperger’s as well.

• Diet for ADHD:

Proteins are an indispensable part of the prescribed ADHD-diet, since proteins are seen to have a “tone-down” effect on children suffering from ADHD.

Sugar is something children with ADHD should definitely try avoiding.

Zinc, Iron, Magnesium and B-complex vitamins are also another “must have”s in the diet of an ADHD person.

• Diet for cerebral palsy:

Cerebral palsy children have muscle-movement problem- that might include problem in chewing too much as well.So, their menu items need to be not just high quality nutritionally, but also easy to eat and drink.

Calorie and healthy fat rich food items must be regularly taken by the person suffering from cerebral palsy. High protein and high-good bacteria items like yogurt and other cultured dairy products are also very much beneficial for them.