I found this website that is short and simple suggesting that parents get their child involved! I couldn't agree more that children with special needs have to get out and be active. That not only relieves stress on the parents and family, but the child. This article specifically focuses on activities for children diagnosed with autism. There are some great ideas. Also, it talks about how parents can be involved if we take for example kayaking. The child can sit in the kayak while a parent paddles. This is still getting their child involved with the community and outdoors and taking a break from everyday struggles.
http://www.tacanow.org/family-resources/teens-with-asd-extracurricular-activities/
I found another article on how students with disabilities are participating in extra curricular activities more now than ever. I am really happy to have found this information because I think it is really important for students with special needs to be involved and active outside of school. It helps the family and the child create a more positive environment. What stuck out to me in this article is that the child should choose an activity that is of interest. The parents should help motivate the child into finding an activity that is of interest, not just any activity.
http://www.ldonline.org/article/9924/
April,
ReplyDeleteI would have never thought of something so simple as the kayaking example.. or even canoeing! I know that I've always loved that, just for them to sit and observe and have good conversation with their parents and siblings could be a good time for them.
This got me thinking of other activities that were not listed on the site that families could do. They could have a family picnic at a park or go see a play. They could also go ice skating or roller skating. Fishing could be a good idea too!
After looking at this article it seems as though there are tons of options to include everyone in the family. I think it comes down to the parents wanting to make the time and having time to do these types of activities with their children.
I'm wondering if this was a situation in the classroom that you noticed you could do a classroom thing with no tv and family time.