What's the best sport for a young person with autism? As with every child, the best sport is the one a child enjoys and excels at. That said, though, autism does impair social and communication skills.That means "typical" team sports such as football, basketball and hockey are particularly tough. Autism is not recognised as a disability by many governing sports bodies because of classification rules and not falling in the learning disability bag so this means young people with autism is not a priority to include them in team sports. I care deeply about supporting young people with autism realise their potential but also see how difficult it is for them to overcome their social problems, play for their school team, sustain their involvement.
I would like to fundraise to introduce a new award scheme that young people participate in while taking part in a team sport. The awards will four badges all focussed on addressing social barriers from getting to know their team mates, their likes and dislikes and being able to share this, working together to think up a team name or design team badge, participate in a fundraising event; a badge that focusses on diet and exercise and the last badge where they want to shine and work toward achieving something of their own - scoring a goal, a forward roll in gymnastics etc . A monthly 'teamtalk' club would be formed to ensure that young people have an opportunity to interact with their peers and they receive the support they need to achieve their award. This would also provide an opportunity for community groups to come along and introduce themselves, make friends and practice their talents.
There is no other award scheme that focusses on autism and sport. It has huge potential and I want to get this off the ground and create that level playing field that all young people with autism deserve.