Gamified Tai Chi for Cognitive Control and Behavioral Symptoms in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: an Assessor-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a "Gamified Tai Chi"intervention on improving executive functions (such as inhibitory control, workingmemory, and cognitive flexibility) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).The study aims to determine whether integrating game mechanics (based on the Mechanics,Dynamics, and Aesthetics framework) into Tai Chi training offers superior benefitscompared to traditional Tai Chi training or routine care.Approximately 200 children aged 8‐15 years will be randomly assigned to one of threegroups for a 12 months period:Gamified Tai Chi Group: Participants will attend sessions combining simplified Tai Chiforms with interactive tasks, such as digital chasing games and cooperative challenges,using a point‐based reward system to enhance engagement.Traditional Tai Chi Group: Participants will learn the same Tai Chi movements but viastandard instruction methods without gamification elements.Control Group: Participants will continue their routine rehabilitation or physicaleducation classes (Waitlist design).Assessors who are blinded to group allocation will evaluate outcomes at baseline andpost‐intervention using standardized cognitive tasks (e.g., Flanker task, 1‐back task)and behavioral questionnaires regarding social functioning and daily living skills.