Social opportunities and recreation give children and youth with special health care needs a chance for better physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, as well as improvements in ability, independence, and self-esteem:

• Young children learn and master milestones in growth and learning through social play.
• During the teenage years, structured social groups can give a relatively-safe way for young adults to test limits, learn about themselves, and build their self-identity.
• It is of great value for young adults to have and take part in social outlets doing things they like, such as arts, crafts, dances, and recreational pursuits.

This can be a chance to build social support networks with peers with and without disabilities. However, many people with disabilities have a hard time taking part in social time outside of the home. This page aims to help parents of children with special needs find the right social opportunities for their children.

Play groups can give young children the chance to build social skills, master milestones, and meet new friends. Parents also have chances to meet other parents and take a break from routines. For more about play groups, see the Additional Early Services page.

Many parents look into faith-based classes for their children, which offer social time and fun activities. For more about faith-based groups, see the Spiritual Needs page.

School Sports and Clubs

• Generally, schools offer some types of sports teams. Basketball, softball, baseball, swimming, track, soccer, golf, tennis, lacrosse, cheerleading, dance, and football are just a few. Taking part in sports teams may help with physical education goals, and some health issues that can be helped by staying active, with the bonus of some after-school supervision.
• Schools may also offer clubs, like chess, band, debate, math, language, and service clubs. Clubs often have teacher supervision but may be less structured than sports teams.

Recreational Groups and Leagues

Adaptations

Non-profit groups, hospitals, and other community organizations offer teens the chance to serve others, as well as meet new people and see work settings. Someone who wants to be a pilot could volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol, or someone who wants to be a doctor could volunteer in a hospital. Teens can offer to help with:

• building houses
• planting trees
• making meals
• help with fundraising
• walk in parades
• work with theater groups
• or other things that they might enjoy

While employment may be work or a way to get a paycheck, jobs are also a social opportunity. Fellow workers become friends and some jobs may also be fun. For more information, see the After High School Options page.