The Power of Recreation – A Gateway to Joy and Connection

Full Article from the Positively Naperville

by Logan Drill, CTRS, Recreational Therapist

How often do we truly prioritize recreation and leisure in our busy lives? For many, the activities that spark joy — painting, swimming, singing — are endlessly deferred, pushed into an ever-elusive “someday.” But what if we recognized the power of play and recreation and prioritized it today?

Recreation is not just about having fun; it’s a catalyst for connection, self-expression, and growth. This is important for all, but especially for individuals with autism. Engaging in activities that align with one’s interests creates the magical “flow state,” where stress melts away and creativity thrives. For children and adults with autism, frequent recreational opportunities are particularly impactful, providing a vital outlet for self-expression and reducing anxiety.

I have felt the magic in my various recreational therapy groups over the past six years of working with participants. Playing a game of trivia can create healthy competition for someone who may be more reserved. Singing karaoke with a group gives the confidence boost that carries a huge smile throughout the rest of the day. Riding a horse encourages a new profound sense of connection and trust for the person who usually spends time alone.

There are many kinds of recreation to choose from, but just finding one can boost positive feelings in the mind and encourage overall connectedness. Recreation makes us who we are and brings a new feeling of motivation to life. When someone who may have ASD is struggling to tell you who they are, remember they might be able to show you better if you give them the opportunity to use recreation.

Recreation is not just an activity — it can be a lifeline. It allows individuals, including those with autism, to communicate, explore, and thrive in ways words often cannot capture. The beauty of recreation lies in its simplicity: just one meaningful activity can uplift the spirit, create a sense of belonging, and ignite motivation.

So, when someone who may have ASD is struggling to tell you who they are, remember they might be able to show you who they are if you give them the opportunity to use recreation. It’s through these moments of play that we discover new layers of connection and joy, both with ourselves and others.

As George Bernard Shaw wisely said, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” Let’s reclaim the joy of play and encourage it in every life, every day.

Established in 2007 to raise the quality of educational supports for children and young adults with autism, Turning Pointe Autism Foundation creates best practice learning environments to increase independence, improve communication and socially appropriate behaviors. Learn more at turningpointeautismfoundation.org.

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