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. Keeping our participants active, healthy and engaged is our number one goal!
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, please contact Kelley Coutts at kelley.coutts@elsforautism.org.
View the Current Recreation Schedule
About the Ernie Els #GameON Autism™ Programs
Through the Ernie Els #GameON Autism™ Programs, we are changing the culture of sports and recreation. People with autism are beginning to feel welcomed and included to participate in a recreation activity, go to public places, 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 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; putting strokes together, and 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/Fitness 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.
The following classes are taught by certified instructors. The Foundation has created partnerships in the community with Whole Vibes, 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
Inter-Ability Chorus
The Inter-Ability Chorus is a community choir for individuals with special needs ages 16+ led by Erica Lyles, our music therapist. Participants will learn singing skills and techniques, gain confidence and self-esteem, enhance communication, develop self-expression while engaging with their peers. Learn More
Music
Exploration of music and dance can facilitate personal growth for people on the spectrum in many areas, including gross and fine motor skills, speech, and language through song, memory and mental agility, social skills, confidence, and self-expression. Learn More
Theater
Els for Autism Foundation is proud to offer a Theater Program specifically tailored to the unique interests and needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. Each class, each song, and each character is specifically designed to cater to each student’s unique individuality and talent. Learn More
Connections Club (Teen + Adults)
Canine Connection
Canine Connection provides participants the opportunity to have a hands-on interactive experience with trained therapy dogs. During the program participants will learn how to approach and interact with a dog, as well as practice skills including, walking a dog, grooming, feeding and basic obedience. Learn More
Spectrum Book Club
The Spectrum Virtual Book Club is for individuals ages 18 and older with autism or developmental disabilities who enjoy exploring the world of literature. Participants do not need to own a copy of the book. During the meeting participants will be able to see the story and members of the Els for Autism Foundation staff will facilitate the group. Learn More
The Bridge the Gap program is designed to provide an activity-based respite care program for individuals enrolled in the Els for Autism Foundation recreation and/or Reach and Teach Through The Arts afternoon activities. This program is for individuals who need a place to go between the end of the school day and their scheduled activities, or for adults who have a block of time between activities.