Social-Recreational Programming

One of the common markers of a child with ASD is the lack of social skills, and the inability to make or maintain friendships.  Social-Recreational programming is a great way for children with ASD to interact with other children experiencing the same issues, and learn to navigate those challenges together.  Programs that focus on sports, cooking classes and clubs, music, arts and crafts, outdoor activities, along with sleep away camps, are all beneficial for children with ASD.

There are many benefits to social-recreational programming for children, which include:

• Increase self-confidence in self, abilities, and social skills
• Increased independence from adults
• Increase decision-making opportunities
• Improved physical and mental health
• Increased social skills
• Gained friendships

(Autism Speaks, 2019)

The following is a list of sites that offer social-recreational programming for children with ASD, or compile lists of programming for children in Ontario:

• Autism Ontario
• About Kids Health
• ConnectABILTY
• Reach Inclusive Recreational Programs
• Sportball
• Toronto Parks, Recs, & Beaches (a personal support worker can be made available to support children in Parks & Rec programming.  Inquire for more information.)\
• Variety Ontario

It is also important to note that children with exceptionalities should not be excluded from participation in groups with children who do not have an ASD diagnosis.  Inclusion is beneficial for children with ASD as it allows them to put their social skills to the test in a real life setting (Langfort et. al, 2015).  It allows them to feel part of a group of their peers, and they will be more likely to learn from the other children.  Inclusion is also beneficial for children who are not diagnosed with ASD, as it teaches them tolerance and acceptance.

References

Autism Speaks.  (2019).  Recreation.  Retrieved from: https://www.autismspeaks.org/recreation-0

Langford, R., Allen, K.E, Cowdery, G.E., Paasche, C.L., Nolan, K. & Cipparrone, B. (2015).  Inclusion in early childhood programs: children with exceptionalities.  (Sixth Canadian Edition).  Toronto: Nelson Education.