Evaluating Motor Coordination in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Validation of a Motor Test Instrument

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by repetitive and stereotyped behaviors, as well as difficulties in communication and delays in motor development. This study aims to assess the reliability and objectivity of an instrument composed of motor tests to evaluate motor coordination in children with ASD. Using the Motor Coordination Assessment Battery for Children with Autism (BACMA) The study involved the production-construction, validation, and evaluation of the instruments, including the measurement of intra- and inter-rater errors as a methodological parameter. An Evaluation Sample Group was formed by 31 children with ASD, aged between 7 and 10 years. The results indicated that BACMA demonstrated high reliability (r = 0.94; p < 0.0001) and objectivity (r = 0.91; p < 0.0001), proving to be a precise and consistent tool for evaluating motor coordination in children with ASD. The general coordination index (ICG) established by the quartiles allowed classifying the motor performance of the children as Very Good, Good, Regular, or Insufficient. It is concluded that the BACMA is a valuable tool for improving the accuracy and effectiveness of motor performance assessment in children with ASD. Furthermore, it is expected that this battery of tests will promote qualitative changes in the analysis of motor coordination in these individuals, being an important tool for professionals in the field of human motricity. This research contributes to the development of more appropriate and personalized intervention strategies aimed at improving motor coordination and overall development of children with ASD.