Background: Early childhood motor development plays a critical role in shaping participation
and quality of life for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Parental
perspectives provide unique insights into barriers, facilitators, and the real-world
impact of interventions. Objectives: This study applied qualitatively led an exploratory
mixed-method design grounded in a biopsychosocial paradigm. The qualitative component
captured parental narratives, while quantitative summaries were generated to identify
consensus areas of motor challenges and environmental influences. This dual approach
aimed to reveal both the diversity of lived experience and recurring patterns that
may inform screening and intervention planning. Methods: Semi-structured interviews
were conducted with 58 parents of preschool-aged children diagnosed with autism spectrum
disorder in Hungary. Transcripts were analysed thematically, and through descriptive
frequency summaries and exploratory chi-squared analyses of coded data. Results: Parents
consistently reported fine and gross motor differences, with consequences extending
to participation in family, school, and community contexts. Early diagnosis was seen
as beneficial primarily when it facilitated access to supportive services. Environmental
adaptations, such as inclusive playgrounds and adaptive tools, were perceived by parents
as enhancing children’s opportunities to participate, while the lack of accommodations
amplified difficulties. Interventions embedded in real-life contexts and actively
involving families were viewed as most effective. Exploratory quantitative summaries
indicated consensus on five key challenges, including pencil grip, small object manipulation,
and playground participation. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that motor development
in autism spectrum disorder is best understood within a biopsychosocial framework
linking individual abilities, environmental modifications, and social acceptance.
By integrating qualitative and quantitative perspectives, this study illustrates how
family experiences can inform the design of family-centred interventions and context-sensitive
policies that foster meaningful participation.
