This list goes beyond the cliche suggestions of playing board games, trying new card games, and making stress balls and sensory bottles (although those can be fun activities, too)!  Aiming to be age-appropriate for adults and skill—and ability-conscious, it includes ten ideas for ten life skill and leisure activity categories.  

From things to do from the comfort of home to ideas when everyone needs to get out of the house, this list will (hopefully) provide some new and exciting ideas and may even help some special needs adults learn a new skill or two!  Check out each section and determine the most meaningful activities for the adult or group you know, given their interests and abilities.   Remember, lead with THEIR interests and be open to new ideas because a new experience may be just what they need!!  

While many ideas on the list would intentionally bring together other individuals with disabilities, like adaptive sports, many different ideas are available to the general public.  

As I drafted this list, I thought of families looking for inspiration and ideas for ways to engage their young adults, especially those nearing high school graduation and exiting special education services.  Most families want to ensure their young adult with special needs has opportunities for social interaction and daily meaningful activities.   And everyone knows that connecting people with the right recreational opportunities can boost one's quality of life.