Sports/Activities for kids with SPD

by Amy
(Suwanee, GA)

My son has had SPD for several years and we recently signed him up to play soccer since he seems to like various sports. However, it's been a complete disaster. The soccer field makes him very overwhelmed and he makes inappropriate responses.




What activities/sports are good for kids with SPD? We are going to try gymnastics.

Any others?



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Feb 24, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		What can I do
by: Anonymous

My son has been told not to go back to his football team for a few months he has spd and kicked off a few times. He is 8 years old what can i do.
Jun 28, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		8 years, wow!
by: Tyler's Mom

Wow! I see a comment that I wrote 8 years ago,& I feel the need to write an update to be encouraging...My son is now 14. Through a lot of hard work (grind) & passion, he is an excellent basketball player. We also found out during our journey that he has an amazing gift for music.

No, your child will not magically "grow out of" having SPD, but with the help of "angels" (occupational therapists, coaches, teachers, grandparents, etc.) his or her life will become more neurotypical. You may also notice that some of the "side effects," such as, the ability to hyper focus actually are a benefit in life. Don't give up, don't ever give up!
Jun 28, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		You're not alone
by: Anonymous

Same here, I thought it would be good to get him into soccer but ever practice ends in a meltdown. It's very hard, I just read an article that lists the 10 sports recommended for spd. The ones that stuck out are swimming, karate, and yoga. Here's the link, hope it helps. http://www.ohanaot.com/top-8-sports-kids-spd/
Jun 20, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same Issues Here
by: JJ

My little guy is having the same experience. We tried soccer, and it was a disaster. He asked to play hockey, so we signed him up. Everything on the uniform is bothering him. I'm thinking we will try something with less equipment next. We are leaning toward swimming, track, or gymnastics.
Mar 14, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		sports
by: Anonymous

Karate has been great for my son & once we worked through the 'wet' face issue he has enjoyed swimming.
Feb 25, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Swimming/swim team
by: Penny Boyle

HI, i have a daughter that has a hard time with group sports. She loves water so we got her started with swimming. She is now in a special needs swim team and she loves to be with the other kids but the activity is individual. She she loves the swim meets and when she gets ribbons/medals she feels really great. She is now good enough to go to State finals in the Special Olympics Games.
Aug 07, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sports and SPD
by: Tyler's Mom

Try to find an indoor soccer school. My 6 y/o with SPD loves it! The place my son attends actually has a soccer for autism program, and although my son doesn't attend those classes the coach is familiar and can deal with the sensory issues. (Soccer is actually great for kids with SPD.)

He tried baseball and was ok with it too. We are currently attempting football which is a nightmare. He's finally ok with wearing a mouth piece and helmet but the padded pants are still driving him nuts. I'm guessing we won't make it through the first game.

Swimming is also great.

Keep fighting the good fight! You are not alone.
May 13, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Karate
by: Anonymous

My son has been taking karate since this past November and I would definitely recommend it for kids with SPD. Swimming is also good for them as well as gymnastics. Good luck!

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