Participation in extracurriculars has lifelong impact.
1. Extracurriculars improve outcomes in physical, social and mental well-being.
2. Socialization with other children and their parents creates bonds, nurtures support and idea-sharing, and shapes lasting friendships between families.
3. Extracurricular activities go a long way in bringing special needs children into fulfilling connection and socialization with other children, just as they do with neurotypical peers.
4. The community includes leveraging investments made by local citizens through taxes and charitable donations.
“…recreation and leisure activities are particularly important for people with autism. We know that participating in such activities often produces opportunities to practice social skills, physical aptitude and increase motivation while also increasing self-confidence and fuller integration into the community.” Source: Autism Speaks - Promoting Autism Inclusion in Youth Organizations
Extracurricular activities can help autistic students to thrive
Source: Living Autism
The average US student spends five hours per week in extracurriculars. 3-6% spend 20+ hours per week.
[RESEARCH] Effects of 8-week exercise program in boys with ASD
