activity and cognitive functioning. Jacobson and Matthaeus (2014) compared EF abilities of
athletes (participated in sports at least once a week; consisted of various levels of athletic
involvement from college varsity to semi-professional and professional athletes) and non-
athletes. The athletes group performed better than non-athletes on EF tests in behavioral
inhibition and problem-solving (Jacobson & Matthaeus, 2014). Given that adults’ cognitive
functioning appears to be boosted by sports participation, children’s cognitive functioning may
benefit as well. Physical activity may be effective in improving EF challenges associated with
ASD. Kern