Autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, affects nearly 1 in 44 children in the U.S. today. While there is no cure for autism, many beneficial therapies can teach them the skills they need to lead a productive and independent life. Recreational therapy is just one aspect of autism spectrum disorder therapy and can greatly improve their health and happiness.
At Camp Worth, we aid in developing teens aged 11-17 who live with autism. Our certified behavioral therapists and medical staff will perform a complete evaluation to determine the right form of treatment that will address all of their education and developmental needs. The skills they learn will reduce negative behavior, improve social interactions, and much more. Call 855.915.2545 today to learn how our autism treatment center can benefit your teen’s health and well-being.
What is Recreational Therapy?
Recreational therapy uses physical and mental activity to teach children with autism about interacting with peers, making decisions, improving hand-eye coordination, and other important life skills. Teens will have an easier time learning new skills by participating in fun activities and games. The more they enjoy the activity, the easier it will be for their new skills to sink in.
Recreational therapy involves several types of activities that can benefit your teen’s development:
- Gardening
- Music
- Art
- Board games
- Solo and group sports
- Interacting with pets
- Dancing
What is recreational therapy? At Camp Worth, we work with your teen to discover the games and activities they enjoy the most and use these activities as part of their therapy. They learn valuable skills that will help with their development now and in the future.
5 Benefits of Recreational Therapy for Teens with Autism
There are many benefits to recreational therapy for teens who live with autism. There are activities for all levels of symptoms, from simple games like recognizing shapes and colors to competing in team sports such as hockey and baseball. It is important to always reward positive behavior during games and activities. The more positive reinforcement you use, the more eager your teen will be to continue the activity and their good behavior.
Here are five benefits of recreational therapy that will help with your child’s development:
- Increases self-esteem and confidence – As your teen learns new skills and abilities, their confidence and self-esteem will increase. They will feel more confident in their ability to keep up with others and reduce negative outbursts due to frustrations.
- Improves social interaction – Games and activities give teens a chance to work on their interpersonal skills. They learn how to share, take turns, and work in a team environment.
- Creates more independence – As your teen’s skills improve, they will feel more confident in their ability to lead an independent life. These skills will improve all areas of their lives as they become less reliant on parents and caregivers.
- Improves their physical and mental health – Physical activities will help build hand-eye coordination, increase muscle tone, and help improve sleeping patterns. It also increases their happiness and can reduce common mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
- Feeling more included – Teens living with autism want to feel included just like everyone else. Recreational therapy increases their interaction with others and improves their ability to cope with different social situations without any negative behavior.
Join Camp Worth for Our Recreational Therapy and Other Beneficial Programs
At Camp Worth, we provide teen boys and girls with a wide range of therapies and medication management to benefit their development. They gain the social and life skills they need to interact with others at school, at home, and in social settings such as sporting events, dating, and family functions. To give your teen son or daughter the best chance at leading a healthy and happy life, call 855.915.2545 or fill out our online form today to begin your teen’s healthy development.
