Experimental application of hippotherapy against problems of sensor integration in preschool children with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

Aim. The purpose of the article is to improve sensory integration, coordination and conditioning abilities in preschool children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) through hippotherapy classes. Material and methods. The pedagogical experiment was conducted on the premises of the Favorit equestrian club (Podolsk, Moscow Region) from September 2016 to September 2018. 10 preschool children with ASD participated in the experiment (experimental group). The following research methods were used: theoretical analysis and literature summary; pedagogical testing; summative and formative assessment; methods of mathematical statistics. Results. Analysis of changes in the indicators of the experimental group from the beginning to the end of the pedagogical experiment showed positive changes. The Romberg test indicators improved by 3.3 s, the results of the trunk stability test and trunk lift test improved by 6 and 5.03 s, respectively (p < 0.05). Assessment of sensory integration showed an improvement in tactile sensation by 14 points, in the vestibular apparatus by 12.63 points, the perception of visual information improved by 8.4 points (p < 0.05). Conclusion. The pedagogical experiment confirms the effectiveness of using hippotherapy for sensory integration dysfunctions in preschool children with autism spectrum disorders and improving coordination and conditioning abilities in children.