ELS FOR AUTISM FOUNDATION

his innovative program has been developed in collaboration with PGA REACH and The First Tee and is especially tailored for individuals on the spectrum. Infused with evidence-based practices for teaching golf to people with ASD, #GameON Autism Golf is designed to build self-esteem and confidence in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment; encouraging participants to learn golf skills while practicing specific autism learning concepts, including: communication, regulatory, motor and social skills.

Spring into Action Early Intervention Services provides evidence-based, early intervention services to children ages 15-36 months that are at risk for or have been diagnosed with ASD. This classroom and home-based program provides instruction that builds on individual strengths to teach new skills, improve behaviors, and remediate areas of weakness.

A unique therapeutic arts program featuring creative music, art, and dance/ movement therapy, as well as musical theatre, tailored specifically to the unique interests and needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. Exploration of music, art, movement and drama can facilitate personal growth for people on the spectrum in many areas including gross and fine motor skills, speech and language through song, memory and mental agility, social skills, confidence, and self- expression. Individual and group sessions are available to the students on campus as well as the wider autism community – both young and old.

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the application of learning principles to bring forth positive behavior change that is socially significant. For individuals with autism, ABA techniques can produce improvements in communication, social relationships, play, self-care, school, and employment.

Provides support and assistance to adults on the spectrum to successfully transition to all aspects of life through independent living models. The Center utilizes a transdisciplinary approach to assist adults in preparing for the world of work through pre-employment skill courses, job search assistance, employer training, and on-the-job coaching. Adults can learn independent living skills within the domains of building and maintaining relationships, managing personal finances, preparing meals and other household chores. Recreation and leisure programs provide adults with opportunities to learn to socialize with friends while participating in activities such as golf, cooking classes, computer and video production classes, and art and music therapy.

The TEAM program provides learning opportunities for college students needing placement for internships, externships, practicum work, and student teaching. Students enrolled in programs for occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, music therapy, nursing, applied behavior analysis, and special education will engage in hands-on learning with highly qualified and experienced staff. Online presentations and webinars on a variety of topics will also be accessible, through our digital resource library, to parents and professionals around the world.

Our state-of-the-art Auditorium Building provides the space and technology to host a wide range of conferences, meetings, and events. It is purpose built to enable researchers and professionals, from the global autism community, to gather and disseminate information on cutting-edge practices and evidence based interventions to meet the needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. The Center’s audio/video conferencing technology means that parents, professionals and researchers from around the world are able to engage and interact in real time with our events or watch recorded seminars housed in our digital resource library. The Auditorium is also available for rental to the community to conduct outside conferences, seminars, workshops, and events.

Is an innovative, family-supportive, research-based fitness and wellness program for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It incorporates the use of traditional fitness equipment, as well as music, dancing, and video games as a means of motivating student participation in fitness activities including cardiovascular, strength training, flexibility, and common recess games. Individuals with ASD often lack opportunities for physical activity due to high levels of intensive therapy involving stagnant activities throughout each day. In addition, many individuals with ASD have high incident deficits in motor planning and coordination leading to an aversion to organized sports activities. Although these individuals may shy away from physical activity and organized sports, it is imperative to create programs that use evidence based practices to get them active, moving and practicing social skills. Individual and group classes are available.