Hey, Go Out and Play

I honestly do not know how many people regularly follow this blog now, but I do want to provide regular updates and info for those of you who take the time to read the posts. Of high priority in establishing lifelong habits of fitness is the concept of pairing physical activity with praise and other positive reinforcers. This spring, try to make outdoor activities a regular family event. Public parks, playgrounds, and any spacious areas are great for establishing basic fitness programs, even if that means running, jumping, or simply walking around. Grab a ball and have a family catch, set up some makeshift hurdles to duck under, crawl through, and step over. Recently I've discovered that one of my favorite training toys on the planet, the waterball, is also a magnet for creative and intense play with children. To make a waterball, take a regual Swiss, or exercise ball, and rather than air, use a hose to fill the ball with water. Be careful because they get HEAVY. The waterball is a diverse tool with limitless application for any athlete (I have to credit Ross Enamit of www.rosstraining.com for the idea). You do NOT have to buy expensive equipment to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle for yourself and your child. But you do have to take action and be inspired to create a fit environment.

-EC

The Hopefully long-awaited SECOND ENTRY

Yes, I have not updated in some time and it is frustrating (at least for me) to not see this blog pick up in action and content. Enough apologies, link time. I'm constantly scouring the net for autism-related news and programs. The information can be overwhelming, underwhelming, poorly-misconstrued, and simply wrong. I do my best to filter out the crud and post the important stuff. Here they are, some links to studies and ongoing research, some articles, and some other goodies:

http://discovermagazine.com/2007/apr/autism-it2019s-not-just-in-the-head

http://www.autismtoday.com/articles/autism_excercise.htm

http://www.whfoods.com/foodstoc.php

http://www.acamnet.org

In the near future I want to make this site a nexus for information concerning autism and healthy development. If anyone has a suggested link or comment please feel free to email me (eric@theraplay-ny.com) or post it up.

I will update soon.

-EC