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Including children with autism spectrum disorders in recreation activities

Rachel L. Smith, MS, Marieke Van Puymbroeck, PhD, CTRS

Abstract


Children with autism often have difficulty being socially integrated in recreation settings. This pilot study examined the effectiveness of the Active Participation and Social Integration (APASI) model as a tool for recreational therapists to use to increase active participation in recreation activities for children with autism. Using an exploratory singlesubject design, researchers explored if the APASI approach increased on-task behavior in three children with autism while participating in an integrated recreation activity. On-task behavior increased in this population. Implications for recreational therapy research and practice are discussed.

Keywords


social integration, autism, recreation, recreational therapy

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5055/ajrt.2011.0026

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