Getting into the Game: Sports Programs for Kids with Autism

"Getting into the Game: Sports Programs for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder" will help families, clinicians and coaches support children with autism in taking their first steps into sport and recreation. Participation in individual and team sports plays an important part in children's development and promotes growth in a number of areas. As well as the obvious health benefits, sport also provides the perfect backdrop to teach young people with autism about rules, strategy and teamwork - all invaluable lessons that can be applied to wider society. By detailing six of the most popular sports: cycling, ice skating, swimming, soccer, taekwondo and tennis and including the unique experiences of families of children with autism, it offers all the information, advice and support needed to help get kids with autism engaged in fun and positive sport environments. This book is an invaluable resource for parents, teachers, coaches and anyone supporting children with autism spectrum disorders in a sport or recreation environment.

Stephanie Patterson is a certified professional figure skating coach (National Coaching Certification Program Level 1) and doctoral student focusing on intervention practices for children with ASD. She has developed and delivered a modified learn to ice skate program for youth with ASD. Stephanie currently lives is Los Angeles, California.

Veronica Smith has been a professor of Special Education for the past seven years. She has a speciality in autism and developmental disabilities and has published several articles on intervention and evidence-based instructional practices for children with autism. She is an active amateur athlete who is committed to fitness and believes in the benefits of lifelong physical activity. Veronica lives in Alberta, Canada.