Enhancing sensorimotor and executive functioning in autistic children with a rhythmic videogame: A pilot study
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Children on the autism spectrum often experience sensorimotor and executive functioning difficulties, which are linked to rhythm disorders and symptom severity. To evaluate the feasibility and effects of training rhythmic skills as a way to improve cognitive functioning, we tested Rhythm Workers (RW), a finger-tapping serious game, in autistic children (ages 7–13; n = 26). Over two weeks, participants played either RW or an active control game with similar auditory-motor demands. Feasibility results showed high compliance (>88% of target training duration) and similar enjoyment for both games. Children who played RW improved in sensorimotor synchronization compared to the control group. Gains in executive functioning were also detected following RW training but not in the control group. Importantly, improvements in sensorimotor synchronization were linked to training duration and symptom severity (social awareness and repetitive behaviors). These findings demonstrate RW’s feasibility and potential as an accessible digital intervention for improving motor and cognitive skills in autistic children.