Spring is here, and so many of our families and kids are ready to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather. And bonus: running around outside and expending some physical energy benefits mental health and behavior, too! As ABA therapists, we’re always looking for new and fun ways to improve behavior outcomes, and parks and playgrounds are a favorite.
The Behavior Benefits of Physical Activity
We’ve all heard that exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle, and we know it’s good for our physical wellbeing. But the benefits reach beyond physical health – exercise can help improve behavior, too. Studies have shown improved attention and concentration following exercise in children both with and without ADHD. And studies have shown similar results in children with Autism, too. While there’s still more research to be done to better understand the correlation between the amount of time spent exercising and the exact behavioral benefits, indications that physical activity improve impulse control, off-task behavior, and aggression are clear.
Parks and Playgrounds Near Our Roswell, GA ABA Therapy Center
If you’re looking to get outside, enjoy the weather, and help your kiddo expend a little energy, there are some great places nearby! Within about a fifteen-minute drive of our Roswell, GA ABA therapy center, you can swing, slide, hike and bike. Here are a few of our favorites.
Hembree Park | 850 Hembree Road, Roswell
This park has walking and hiking trails, a garden, a playground, and even tennis courts and a baseball field. And it’s located less than a mile from our ABA therapy center for an easy before or after therapy activity!
Wills Park | 11925 Wills Road, Alpharetta
Wills Park, less than two miles from our therapy center, has something for everyone. There are walking trails, pavilions for picnics, a recreation center that hosts various activities, and three playgrounds ready for climbing and sliding.
Big Creek Park | 1600 Old Alabama Road, Roswell
Big Creek Park is for families ready to walk, hike, or even mountain bike nearby.
Riverside Park | 575 Riverside Road, Roswell
As its name suggests, Riverside Park is scenic. It offers river access, fishing docks and two playgrounds – one designed for kids 2-5 and another for ages 5-12. During the summer months, there’s a splash pad, too.
Newton Park | 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek
This park has it all: Two miles of trails, baseball fields, basketball courts, a community garden, picnic pavilions, two playgrounds, and so much more! It’s worth the 15 minute drive.
Sweet Apple Park | 11850 Crabapple Road, Roswell
Sweet Apple Park has a playground with ramp access and plenty of swings. There’s even a shaded sand box for kiddos to dig around and build. There’s a one-mile walking path and fields, as well.
At Innovative Behavior Options, we help families thrive. To learn more about our approach to ABA therapy, check out our website or give us a call at 770-250-0093.