Participation by people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in the same leisure, recreational and social activities that are offered to all citizens in their communities is an essential aspect of their quality of life. Recreational and leisure activities facilitate the development of community connections and can have significant benefits to physical and emotional health and well-being.
It is The Arc New York’s position that:
- Access to recreational and leisure activities appropriate to one’s interest and age level is a necessity and has the same level of importance for resource allocation as education, employment and living arrangements;
- Integrated leisure, recreational and social activities are an essential and legitimate component of a good quality of life for persons with intellectual and other developmental disabilities;
- Local communities and school districts have a responsibility to ensure that parks, playgrounds, recreational facilities and other outdoor recreational areas are accessible to people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities;
- Support must be provided and if needed, assistive technology, should be used to increase participation in inclusive recreation and leisure activities;
- Information and education must be provided to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to ensure they are aware of the opportunities and benefits of inclusive recreation and leisure activity