Episode 24: Autism and Movement with Sheena Leedham

Episode 24: Autism and Movement with Sheena LeedhamIn this episode, we sit down with Sheena Leedham, an educator and trainer whose work highlights the power of movement in the autism community. Sheena shares her unexpected journey into this field, emphasizing how physical milestones and skill acquisition play a crucial role in child development.The conversation explores how exercise and structured training can be adapted to meet the needs of autistic individuals. Sheena explains why creating a supportive environment matters, how integrating choice and motivation can boost engagement, and why observational skills are critical for trainers and parents alike. She also offers practical strategies—like using schedules for predictability—and discusses how movement, like any other skill, requires practice and progression.Sheena’s insights and resources, including her books, provide valuable guidance for parents and trainers seeking to better support autistic children through movement and exercise.Subjects covered include:Sheena’s journey into the autism communityPhysical milestones and their role in developmentSkill acquisition through movement and exerciseBuilding supportive environments for successThe importance of choice and motivation in trainingObservational skills for trainers and parentsHow schedules create structure and predictabilityMovement as a practiced, progressive skillAdapting training techniques to individual needsResources for parents and trainersLinks:🌐 Website: https://mef2cast.com🛒 Merch: https://mef2cast.printify.me