How can we help DS move faster (run) and have quicker reaction times?

[Anonymous]

DS had some very mild motor delays as a toddler, and he caught up quickly with PT and speech therapy. I am talking about crawling and walking and getting sounds correct. As he got older, he was not distinguishable from his peers. In fact, he is highly verbal with beautiful speech. He is quite agile on playground equipment. He is now 7, and old enough for kiddie soccer and basketball. His skills are quite good when he isn't running or doesn't have to reach a ball. But his running is SLOOOOOW, and his reaction times are also slow. He will sort of watch the ball go by him. He doesn't get into the thick of trying to get to a ball. I think this is related to the early motor delays. What is the best way to help him? He is really far outgrown the need for a PT or OT - we've had him evaluated annually by a developmental pediatrician. The difference is now very subtle but its there again in the form of running speed and reaction time. It frustrates him. Advice?

[Anonymous]

Fitness for Health in Rockville.

[Anonymous]

My DS has the exact sam problem - peer pressure has helped greatly with his speed!

[Anonymous]

My trainer used to do this great trick with me that would also maybe be fun for your son (in terms of the reaction times). Get a Bosu ball and have him stand on the squishy part. Then throw balls at him for him to catch. It's a lot of fun and helped me so much with my balance, coordination, etc.

Probably not the answer you were looking for but just popped into my head.

[Anonymous]

Agree with Fitness for Health. Pricey but fun and effective.

[Anonymous]

Tae Kwon Do

[Anonymous]

Thanks for responses! DS is in taek won do, but so far I haven't seen a major improvement. Fitness for Health is an interesting proposal. Will it be clear to him that he has a difference and thats why he is going there? Or will it appear to him as a fun activity that any kid could be doing? Taek won do fits this bill, and I've never been sure about Fitness for Health. He has a lot of therapeutic interventions between ages 1-3, and I know he is sensitive about the "why" question. We could do the private instruction if thats helpful. Would appreciate advice on this. Thanks again.

[Anonymous]

Not everyone who goes to Fitness for Health has a diagnosis, so there are plenty of NT kids there but also plenty of kids with disabilities. Call and make an appointment to check it out.

[Anonymous]

Fitness for Health is a good suggestion. If you are interested in private lessons, Mr. Aaron fitness teacher at The Diener School has a business on the side -- Heights and Beyond -- for private lessons for any type of skill. He is awesome and kids (and parents) love him.