Special Kids: Outside Fun
It is important for every child to have time for outside fun regardless of physical disability, social challenges, or behavioral issues.
Exercise Most outside activities involve exercise. Teachers, therapists, and doctors would refer to this as gross motor activities. Exercise does not have to mean participation on a sport team (although it can). Walking, swimming, etc. are also great exercise.
Social Skills Children have a greater opportunity to practice social skills outside. Many children with special needs are challenged in the area of social skills.
Consider Josh, who is autistic. While Josh may love going outside for a walk or to jump on his trampoline, he may feel uncomfortable interacting with the neighbors. Outside fun time can provide a chance to practice those social skills.
Consider Amy, who is ADHD. Swimming at the community pool may be fun, but the crowd may be a little overwhelming. A carefully chosen time (not too many people) would give her the chance to practice keeping track of her things (use a fun bag), being safe (noting the pool rules), and watching her time (waterproof watch).
Change of Scenery Different surroundings are important for mental health and sensory and intellectual stimulation.
One of the perks of just being outside is the emotional boost of fresh air and sunshine. Even going out on a rainy day is refreshing when someone has been inside.
The outside world offers endless sensory and intellectual stimulation whether it is watching butterflies in your own yard or figuring out the tunnels on the new equipment at the park.
You may be thinking This sounds great, but my child doesn't really like being outside. or My child just wants to do the same activity over and over when he goes out.
My next article:
Special Needs: Outside Fun Ideas
Note: All children in this article are fictitious and represent general characteristics of the disability.
© 2006 Lynn Moore No portion of this article may be copied or distributed without the written consent of the author.
