Abstract
Insufficient attention has been paid to the development of programs that include youth with disabilities, with the aim of increasing their physical activity, and thus promoting their overall well-being. Jachyra et al. (2021) state that “Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder are less physically active compared with their age-related peers” (p. 613). Jachyra et al. (2021) conclude in their studies that “challenges in community programs, and the prioritization of therapeutic interventions limit participation” (p. 613). For this reason, there is a need for utilizing outdoor environments for therapeutic recreation. Research evidence in this project suggests that specially designed therapeutic recreation programs are of benefit to youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Jachyra et al. (2021) demonstrate in their findings that “a need for directed efforts to create policies and practices which are individualized and reflective of the needs and abilities of adolescents with [ASD] . . . to promote physical activity participation and potentially enhance physical health and wellbeing” (p. 613).While workshops and instruction in training methods do exist for teachers and others who create programs for children and youth, community centers do not always have the knowledge and resources for outdoor programming to serve youth with ASD. For instance, Sadeghzadeh et al. (2022) confirm that “[c]ommunity gardens increase access to fresh produce and opportunities for physical activity and may offer additional benefits” (p. 141). The goal of the proposed program design is to take into consideration participants with disabilities, to enable them to gain the benefits of a program utilizing an outdoor environment. The specific plan is to incorporate therapeutic activities that involve gardening and meditation.