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Recreation Programs and Services

Keeping our recreation participants active, healthy and engaged is our number one goal! Accordingly, The Els for Autism Foundation® offers recreation programs specifically developed for children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities. Programming is held at The Els Center of Excellence® campus located in Jupiter, Florida, and new participants must complete the Els for Autism® intake process before beginning any program or activity. 

To register for any of our recreation programs listed below:

Contact: Greg Connors, Recreation Services Manager
Email: greg.connors@elsforautism.org
Phone: 561-320-9512

Recreation Schedule for Winter and Spring 2024

A few openings remain in the programs listed below. Click to register:

THEATRE

YOGA 1 (2 PM)

YOGA 2 (3 PM)

YOGA 3 (4 PM)

DANCE THERAPY 1 (2 PM)

DANCE THERAPY 3 (4 PM)

Can’t make it to campus? Join one of our virtual clubs to participate in our recreation services.

Amateur Spectrum Book Club (Ages 16+): Tuesdays at 4 PM EST
(Focuses on fundamental reading skills such as fluency, volume, reading with expression, plot summaries, and comprehension checks.)
Participants do not need to own a copy of the book. During the meeting, participants will be able to see the story, and Els for Autism Foundation® staff will facilitate the group. Participants may take an active role as a reader during the meeting, or they can choose to listen to their peers. At the end of each meeting, staff will lead the group in a discussion and Q&A.

Pro Spectrum Book Club (Ages 16+): Wednesdays at 4:30 PM EST.
(Focuses on advanced reading skills such as comprehension, making inferences and connections to self and/or others, and making predictions.)
Participants do not need to own a copy of the book. During the meeting, participants will be able to see the story, and Els for Autism Foundation® staff will facilitate the group. Participants may take an active role as a reader during the meeting, or they can choose to listen to their peers. At the end of each meeting, staff will lead the group in a discussion and Q&A.

Connections Club (Ages 16+): Thursdays at 4 PM EST
Connections Club is designed to provide opportunities for individuals to interact with peers in a safe and supportive environment using video conferencing technology while practicing social and communication skills. Els for Autism® staff members facilitate meetings, providing support and guidance so individuals of all abilities can actively participate in the group. Each meeting will follow a schedule, including a welcome/introduction; a review of expectations; a stretching routine; fun facts; and a variety of discussion topics, games, and activities.

Email Greg Connors for more information.

Bridge The Gap Respite Care Program 

Need to have something to do before or between our programs and services – our Bridge the Gap Respite Care Program is available for any client to enroll in:

Learn More 


About the Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Programs

Through the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Programs, we are changing the culture of sports and recreation. As a result, people with autism are beginning to feel included and welcomed to participate in recreation activities, go to public places, and even take lessons or group classes with their local sports professionals. We believe recreation, specifically sports, can be an effective supplemental therapy for individuals with autism. Resources for this program and information for starting up your own program can be  found here.

Golf

Golf classes at Els for Autism use the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program, specifically designed to teach golf to people with ASD. In each class, participants will learn and practice foundational motor skills through fun athletic games and golf activities while also practicing social/communication skills. Learn More 

Tennis

Tennis classes at Els for Autism use the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Tennis program, a structured tennis learning experience that includes: basic strokes, hand-eye coordination, racket handling and sequencing of the various strokes together, as well as components of the game-based process.Learn More 

Fitness

Ernie Els #GameON Autism Fitness is an innovative, research-based fitness and wellness program for individuals with ASD. It incorporates the use of traditional fitness equipment, as well as music, dance, and video games as a means of motivating student participation in fitness activities. Learn More 

Yoga

Special needs Yoga enhances stamina, flexibility, energy, and strength in a fun and motivating social environment. Classes include warm-ups, breathing exercises, cardio routines, developmentally appropriate yoga poses, and relaxation techniques. Learn More 

Kickball Club

Kickball Club provides individuals the opportunity to participate in a team sport with their peers.  Participants will engage in a number of physical activities including running, throwing, rolling, and catching.  There is a maximum of 10 participants per class.  Each class will include a warmup, skill-building, and 30 minutes of play.


All classes in the Reach and Teach through the Arts Program are taught by certified instructors, and the Foundation has also created partnerships in the community with Whole Vibes, LLC, The Palm Beach Opera, and Right On Q  Theater Group in order to serve the wider autism community. 

Dance and Movement Therapy

This class introduces individuals to the fundamentals of dance in a positive and creative environment.  Through rhythmic exercises, basic ballet techniques, and creative movement, individuals develop creative expression, as well as an awareness and understanding of the mechanics of their body movement.  Dancers will participate in movement games that encourage spontaneous and creative expression, build movement vocabulary & repertoire and allow safe exploration while promoting social skills, peer interactions & relationship development. Learn More 

Music (Coming Soon)

Exploration of music and dance can facilitate personal growth for people on the spectrum in many areas, including gross and fine motor skills, speech-language through song, memory and mental agility, social skills, confidence, and self-expression. Learn More 

 



For organizations, providers, and practitioners interested in initiating or expanding recreation services click here.

 

Financial Need Assistance 

The Foundation offers programs and services to the entire community, and services are NOT limited to individuals enrolled at The Learning Academy. Additionally, some individuals may qualify for financial assistance. Complete the Financial Need Assistance Application here.

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