High functioning autistic children can participate in a wide range of leisure activities, though accessing a new environment can be challenging. Moreover, not knowing the rules of the game really goes beyond their comfort zone.

Plenty of local initiatives succeed in the objective to entertain these children for a moment, but let’s not underestimate the impact in the long run. The beneficial effects will definitely contribute to a more diverse and inclusive environment/society.

A few years ago, I was asked if we could commit us for a project designed to help autistic children. At first, we questioned which domain of life required greater attention? We agreed with dedicated experts to focus on leisure activities.

The authors of “Developing leisure time skills for people with autism spectrum disorders.” describe a pastime as a meaningful engagement during unstructured time. Does it sound like fun? Not really!

So how can we make a difference? Which approach can be most effective?

Operating across borders is the best way to increase our impact on tomorrow’s world. Scoping out to the larger potential also allows us to practice the train the trainer principle from day one. For the pilot we plan to facilitate a collaboration between 3 communities to speed up the process, bearing in mind the goals for inclusion set by authorities worldwide.

Raising funds to invest in a child’s future in the long run is an act of social responsibility. However, keeping a small number of children in a safe space isn’t the smartest way to deal with the challenge. Financing leisure activities is a good investment once we reach out to a maximum of newbies.

By helping children to step up to the regular or inclusive leisure offer, they give their seat to beginners. And only 3 to 4 sessions later, another small group can take their chances. Talking about exponential growth potential!

Local initiators – in general – don’t feel the need to neither grow locally nor spread wings. With their approval we attune the activity to fit the concept of initiation workshops. And we connect (them) with potential partners that can implement the concept in their community.

And off course lifting children to the next level, requires that we give support to coaches in the inclusive leisure environment. They need to feel comfortable with welcoming special children in their groups.

We much appreciate all the good work and acknowledge the influence of all these individual projects. Together we will have more impact and our ambition is to grow a business. There’s a great need for initiatives that – effectively and in large numbers – contribute to a more inclusive living environment.