Are you a parent or professional who wants to help a youth or adult with an Intellectual / Developmental Disability (I/DD) or an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to get healthier and happier through walks in nature? Then sign up to our Fresh Air Self Care FOR ALL training initiative! Read more about the options on our project page here, and sign up here to be notified about upcoming in-person or virtual workshop[s and our self-directed course in development. You can also watch a short video about the program, and print or share a PDF with all of these live links (available to the bottom of this post).
The project will offer several levels of training. Walking Every Week is intended for those with less complex mobility and behavioral challenges who want to add a new, fun, and exciting activity. Walking Everywhere is intended for those with more complex mobility and behavioral challenges, those who want to walk more more often to build their fitness and capacity, and those who want to explore longer and more challenging trails. We also offer individualized coaching (primarily focused on Chester County residents) to help those still struggling after completing the Walking Everywhere module. Both of the training program helps participants to build an individualized profile about their hiker to guide them in selecting the right paths, trails, and goals. The training draws from the latest research on potential outcomes and evidence-based practices.
We are also excited about the partnerships created here. The YMCA of Greater Brandywine is working with us to identify experienced health and fitness professionals who will be trained to join me in providing the coaching described above. The National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability is providing funding support for coaching through its Accelerating Inclusion program.