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Fitness and Autism: Evidence-Based Practices to Promote Healthy Lifestyles and Inclusion Opportunities for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders |
Saturday, May 26, 2012 |
8:00 AM–11:00 AM |
201 (Convention Center) |
Area: AUT; Domain: Service Delivery |
CE Instructor: Linda S. Meyer, Ed.D. |
LINDA S. MEYER (Autism New Jersey), RANDY I. HOROWITZ (Eden II Programs), BARBARA WELLS (Autism New Jersey) |
Description: Individuals with autism spectrum disorders may be at risk for being physically inactive. The characteristics of the disorder may interfere with successful participation in traditional forms of physical activity. The goal of a fitness program is to maximize the health, fitness, and appearance of each individual. For individuals with ASDs, acquiring appropriate fitness levels and skills promotes the productive use of leisure time in less restrictive settings, inclusion in family recreational activities, expansion of employment opportunities, and increased independence. Access to community health/fitness clubs and programs has not been an option for many individuals with ASDs. Effective fitness and exercise programs for individuals with ASDs require strategic collaboration. Certified personal fitness trainers are experts in physiology and function. Parents are experts in their own children with ASDs. Applied behavior analysts objectively define and improve socially significant behavior. Individuals with ASDs and their families seeking to participate in an inclusive fitness program benefit from a collaborative approach. Extensive research supports the effectiveness of a behavioral approach for individuals with ASDs and their families. This workshop, presented by three professionals, one of whom is also a parent of an adolescent with autism, will address the application of behavioral principles to promote the physical fitness of individuals with ASDs as well as inclusion in family and community health and fitness programs and activities. |
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this workshop, participants should be able to:
Identify research-based instructional strategies used to promote physical fitness safety, sports performance, and leisure skills for individuals with ASDs in community settings
Identify measurement procedures to promote accountability in fitness programs, including measures of social validity in a school-based running program and a community fitness center
List the necessary components of an effective leisure and fitness programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders |
Activities: Participants will view a PowerPoint presentation, receive handouts, and view videos. They will have opportunities to respond to the information presented in a didactic presentation and participate in problem solving discussions. |
Audience: The workshop is appropriate for behavior analysts and family members who are interested in starting, expanding, or enhancing health and fitness programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders to promote inclusion in families and communities. |
Content Area: Practice |
Instruction Level: Intermediate |