Keeping our recreation participants active, healthy, and engaged is our priority! Accordingly, Els for Autism offers recreation programs specifically developed for children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Programming is held at The Els Center of Excellence campus located in Jupiter, Florida, and virtually for online groups.
All on-site classes are held at The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter, Florida in a 1:4 staff-to-student ratio. Our staff includes specialized instructors, behavior technicians, and recreation assistants. Classes are held Monday through Friday between 1:30 – 5:30 p.m. New participants must complete our intake process before beginning any programs.
For more information and to register, contact our Recreation Team below.
Download 2024 Fall/Winter Schedule
Sports & Fitness Programs
Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports Programs
Through the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports Programs, we are changing the culture of sports and recreation for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. The programs are infused with evidence-based practices to maximize learning for all. Learn More
Golf
The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program is designed to teach the fundamentals of golf including putting, pitching, chipping, and full swing, as well as proper club grip. In each class, participants will learn and practice foundational motor skills through fun athletic games and golf activities while also practicing social communication skills.
Tennis
The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Tennis program is a structured
tennis learning experience that includes: basic strokes, hand-eye coordination, racket handling, and sequencing of the various strokes together. Components of the game-based process are woven into each lesson. Participants also practice social and communication skills.
Fitness
The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Fitness program is designed to address various areas of health and fitness. Lessons include exercises in cardio, strength, and flexibility while practicing social communication with peers and instructors. Classes incorporate the use of traditional fitness equipment, as well as music and dance as a means of motivating student participation in fitness activities.
Kickball
Kickball provides individuals the opportunity to participate in a team sport with their peers. Participants engage in physical activities that include running, throwing, rolling, and catching while also developing social/communication skills through peer interaction and peer encouragement. Each class includes a warm-up, skill-building, and 30 minutes of play.
Yoga
Yoga for individuals with special needs enhances stamina, flexibility, and strength in a fun, motivating, and social environment. Accompanied by calming music, classes include warm-up and breathing exercises, cardio routines, developmentally appropriate and energizing yoga poses, as well as relaxation techniques to improve health, promote well-being, and increase bodily awareness.
Virtual Social & Communication Programs
No matter where you call home, you can participate in our virtual social and communications programs which all meet on Microsoft Teams. Like all of our on-site programs, these virtual programs support individuals with ASD in building relationships, fostering community, developing social skills, and improving self-esteem.
Spectrum Book Clubs (Ages 18+):
Book club provides participants an opportunity to enjoy reading, listening, and discussing a shared book. Participants do not need to own a copy of the selected book. During the meeting, participants will be able to see the story, and Els for Autism staff will facilitate the group. Participants may take an active role as readers during the meeting, or they can choose to listen to their peers. At the end of each meeting, staff will lead the group in a discussion and Q&A.
Amateur Spectrum Book Club (Ages 18+):
Focuses on fundamental reading skills such as fluency, volume, reading with expression, plot summaries, and comprehension checks.
Pro Spectrum Book Club (Ages 18+):
Focuses on advanced reading skills such as comprehension, making inferences and connections to self and/or others, and making predictions.
Connections Club (Ages 18+):
Connections Club is designed to provide opportunities for individuals to interact with peers in a safe and supportive environment using video conferencing technology while practicing social and communication skills. Els for Autism staff members facilitate meetings, providing support and guidance so individuals of all abilities can actively participate in the group. Each meeting will follow a schedule, including a welcome/introduction, a review of expectations, fun facts, and a variety of discussion topics, games, and activities.
Reach & Teach Through the Arts
The exploration of art, dance, and music can facilitate personal growth and development for people with ASD in many areas, including gross and fine motor skills, speech-language skills (through song, memory, and mental agility), social skills, confidence, and self-expression.
Reach and Teach through the Arts is a unique creative arts program featuring art, dance, music, and theater tailored specifically to the unique interests and needs of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Group sessions are available on campus for individuals ages 6 and older. All classes are taught by certified therapists or instructors.
Dance Therapy
This class introduces individuals to the fundamentals of dance in a positive & 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 & creative expression, build movement vocabulary & repertoire , and allow safe exploration. While dancing, participants will engage in activities to promote social skills, peer interactions, and relationship development.
Music Therapy
Music Therapy is all about exploring and participating in a wide range of creative musical experiences in a supportive group setting. Music Therapy can increase confidence, develop communication & social skills, self-expression, and find connection with yourself and others. In this group, you will have the opportunity to grow & enjoy creative music-making with instruments from around the world, song selection, using rhythm, songwriting, movement to music, and more. Each week we will have the opportunity to create & explore music together.
Art Therapy
Art therapy focuses on the process of making art to express one’s thoughts and feelings. By engaging in art therapy, you can explore your emotions, enhance communication skills, and develop social connections. Each week, you will have the opportunity to explore different art mediums and create personalized art works.
Beyond Art will be facilitated by Alicia Ballestas, MA, ATR-BC, Board Certified, Clinical Art Therapist
Theater
Theater fosters individuality, inspires imagination, promotes communication, and celebrates personal interests for individuals with autism. Our theatre classes help participants develop social skills, verbal expression, empathy for others, and a sense of self-worth and accomplishment through a complement of short scene work, object work exercises, and improv games, all culminating in an end-of-semester showcase where each individual has their opportunity to shine.
Classes are run in a 1:6 ratio, and individuals needing more support to participate are eligible to join with a support companion.
Bridge the Gap
Bridge the Gap is a respite care program for individuals who need a place to go before and between Foundation programs and services. Under the supervision of recreation staff, participants may engage in a variety of leisure activities, including puzzles, board games, and arts & crafts. Participants may bring snacks and a drink as none will be available.
Please note: As this service is specifically for prior to/between participants’ activities, individuals must be picked up from their last activity/therapy and cannot be picked up from Bridge the Gap. Additionally, Bridge the Gap services will not be provided on days Els for Autism is closed. Spaces are limited. Enrollment on a first-come, first-served basis.
