Recreation Programs and Services

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 Greg Connors, Recreation Services Coordinator, at greg.connors@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 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 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.

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, and 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

Connections Club (Teen + Adults)