In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Darcy von Borstel, an Adapted Physical Education Specialist from Sacramento, California. Darcy’s work focuses on helping students with diverse abilities, including autistic individuals, improve their gross motor skills and navigate physical education with confidence and creativity.

Darcy shares her insights on how physical education can foster critical life skills like reciprocal play, which helps autistic individuals build meaningful interactions with peers. From using bubble wands as motivation to teaching kids the joy of throwing and catching, she explains how tailoring approaches to each student’s unique needs and interests can transform their learning experience. Darcy also dives into the concepts of proprioception and interoception, shedding light on how sensory processing differences can shape autistic individuals’ relationship with physical activity.

The conversation explores Darcy’s personal journey as well, including her empathy for neurodivergent individuals, shaped by her own experiences with MS, cancer, and the cognitive challenges they’ve brought. Her vulnerability and resilience shine through as she reflects on how these challenges have deepened her patience, awareness, and connection with her students.

Topics Covered:

• ​ The role of physical education in fostering social skills for autistic individuals
• ​ Understanding gross motor skills and their impact on development
• ​ Reciprocal play as a gateway to social interaction
• ​ Proprioception, interoception, and their unique challenges in autism
• ​ The importance of tailored teaching approaches for neurodivergent students
• ​ Darcy’s personal health journey and its influence on her work
• ​ Why the education system still has a long way to go in embracing neurodiversity