Blog

The holiday season is around the corner, and families are preparing for celebrations, gifts, and fun activities. However, due to their neurodiverse conditions, not every child is able to fully participate in these festive events.

Take, for example, Autism. Autism conditions can make it challenging for children to engage in physical activities like playing basketball or other sports, not because they are physically not capable but because it presents issues with social interaction, communication, and even sensory overload in some cases.

Juice Hoops Foundation in Chicago

Thankfully, organizations like the Juice Hoops Foundation in Chicago are working towards providing equal opportunities for all children, no matter their abilities.

Juice Hoops, founded by Michael Thompson, is a program that focuses on providing a safe and inclusive space for children with disabilities to socialize and engage in basketball. Thompson was inspired by his own neurodiverse son to start this mission, as he saw the lack of programs catering to disabled children. With the help of local high school and college players, along with support staff and therapists, the Juice Hoops camp is able to provide both physical activity and educational and social opportunities for these children.

As any parent of a child diagnosed with Autism would attest, finding activities that accommodate social needs while also being physically stimulating is a rare find. Most of the time ASD children are forced to stay away from social gatherings and sports events because few are well conversant with their social and sensory challenges.

The current Autism rate in the United States is 1 in 34 children, which may seem like a small number. Still, if you convert it to actual numbers, that’s over 1.5 million children who may struggle to find inclusive and accessible programs.

Organizations like the Juice Hoops Foundation are making a positive impact in the lives of these children and their families by promoting inclusivity and breaking barriers for those with disabilities. As we enter the holiday season, let us remember to support and uplift organizations like Juice Hoops that are working towards a more inclusive society for all individuals.

Autism Treatment and Support in Chicago, IL

Is your loved one impacted by a neurodiverse condition such as Autism? Do you need assistance finding Autism educational, treatment or recreational resources in Chicago?

You can contact us here at Illinois Autism for resources and support. We are dedicated to providing assistance, therapeutic services, and advocacy for individuals with Autism and their families. Let’s work together towards a more inclusive world