Below is a clear, OT-based explanation of Motor Planning (Praxis), written practically and step-by-step, with examples, exercises, and therapy goals for autistic children.
What is Motor Planning (Praxis)?
Motor planning is the brain’s ability to:
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Think about a movement
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Plan how to do it
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Execute the movement smoothly
In autism, this system may be weak. The child may know what to do, but the body does not organize the movement properly.
Signs of Motor Planning Difficulties
A child may:
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Appear clumsy or uncoordinated
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Struggle with new movements
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Have trouble copying actions
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Need extra time to start tasks
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Avoid playground activities
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Get frustrated with physical tasks
This is not laziness or low intelligence.
Why OT Works on Motor Planning
OT helps the brain:
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organize movement sequences
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improve body awareness
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build confidence with movement
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reduce frustration and avoidance
Better motor planning = better daily functioning and learning.
OT Motor Planning Activities & Exercises
1. Obstacle Courses (Very Effective)
Examples:
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Crawl under table
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Step over pillows
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Jump into a circle
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Throw ball into basket
Why: child must plan and sequence actions.
2. Imitation Games
Examples:
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“Do what I do”
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Copy clapping patterns
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Copy body poses
Why: strengthens planning + coordination.
3. Animal Walks
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Bear walk
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Crab walk
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Frog jumps
Why: improves coordination and sequencing.
4. Sequenced Motor Tasks
Examples:
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Jump → clap → turn
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Roll ball → catch → throw
Start with 2 steps, then increase.
5. Ball Skills
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Rolling, throwing, catching
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Kicking a ball to a target
Why: timing + motor planning.
6. Construction & Play
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Building blocks
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Lego
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Puzzle assembly
Why: planning, problem-solving, fine motor integration.
7. Daily Living Practice
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Putting on shoes (step-by-step)
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Washing hands in sequence
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Packing a bag
Break tasks into small steps.
How OT Teaches Motor Planning
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Modeling (show first)
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Physical guidance (fade gradually)
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Visual cues (pictures, arrows)
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Repetition (many successful tries)
Success builds confidence → confidence improves planning.
OT Principles for Motor Planning
✔ One instruction at a time
✔ Slow pace
✔ Clear start and end
✔ Praise effort, not speed
Avoid rushing or correcting too much.
Example 10-Minute OT Motor Planning Routine
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Imitation game (2 min)
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Obstacle course (4 min)
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Animal walk (2 min)
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Calm activity (2 min)
How Progress Looks
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Faster task initiation
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Smoother movements
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Less frustration
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More willingness to try new activities
What OT Does NOT Do
❌ It does not force perfection
❌ It does not compare children
❌ It does not rush development
Key OT Message
Motor planning improves through practice, success, and confidence — not pressure.