Leisure
One of the most effective ways to increase the activity level of individuals with DD is to help them engage in fun physical activities. When exercise is fun the chances of continued participation rises. The basic idea is to focus on an activity or sport that the person enjoys doing and comes easily to him or her. A good place to start is to make an inventory with the person with DD of what physical fun activities they like to do or activities the might like to do. Brainstorm with the person. They may not be able to do a physical activity but may want to learn to do it.
Here is a short list of ideas to get the list flowing: walking a dog, swimming, Frisbee, softball, gymnastics, sledding, skiing, snowshoeing, jogging, soccer, karate, bird watching, volleyball, yoga, walking or hiking, dancing, bike riding, weight training, skating, canoeing, horseback riding, bowling, miniature golf, ping pong, tennis, using exercise machines, rock climbing, and going on outings that include walking to get there.
After you make a list, pick the top two or three and see if they are available in your community – check Public facilities like parks and rec; look at Community groups like YMCA, Special Olympics, Arc, church groups: Commercial businesses like health and fitness clubs, martial arts academies, bowling alleys; Schools like community colleges and adult education classes.
Now gather the information about the fun physical activities you have chosen together – where is that activity located? At what time? How do I get there? How much does it cost? What do I wear? Can I bring someone along for support?
And finally find ways to make it happen. What are the problems with doing this activity? Brainstorm possible solutions. Pick the best solution. And then try it to see if it works.
Good luck and remember above all – Have Fun!
Here is a short list of ideas to get the list flowing: walking a dog, swimming, Frisbee, softball, gymnastics, sledding, skiing, snowshoeing, jogging, soccer, karate, bird watching, volleyball, yoga, walking or hiking, dancing, bike riding, weight training, skating, canoeing, horseback riding, bowling, miniature golf, ping pong, tennis, using exercise machines, rock climbing, and going on outings that include walking to get there.
After you make a list, pick the top two or three and see if they are available in your community – check Public facilities like parks and rec; look at Community groups like YMCA, Special Olympics, Arc, church groups: Commercial businesses like health and fitness clubs, martial arts academies, bowling alleys; Schools like community colleges and adult education classes.
Now gather the information about the fun physical activities you have chosen together – where is that activity located? At what time? How do I get there? How much does it cost? What do I wear? Can I bring someone along for support?
And finally find ways to make it happen. What are the problems with doing this activity? Brainstorm possible solutions. Pick the best solution. And then try it to see if it works.
Good luck and remember above all – Have Fun!
Next Topic Area is Sleep
