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Game On! How the Football Season Can Be a Touchdown for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism

The crisp air, the roar of the crowd, the excitement of the game – football season is here, and it brings with it a unique energy that can be incredibly beneficial for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism. Beyond just entertainment, engaging with football, whether as a fan or in adapted play, offers a wealth of opportunities for social growth, cognitive development, and community connection.


At Harrell Homes Assisted Living, we believe in leveraging accessible community activities, and for many, the autumn ritual of football can be a powerful tool for engagement and learning.

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The Benefits of Football Engagement

For individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism, the structure, predictability, and social aspects of football can offer numerous advantages:

  1. Understanding Rules and Sequences (Cognitive Development): Football, with its clear rules, plays, and turns, provides an excellent platform for developing an understanding of sequences and cause-and-effect. Following the game helps with focus and attention span.

  2. Social Connection and Belonging: Being part of a fan base offers a natural way to connect with others. Cheering for a team, wearing team colors, and discussing games can foster a sense of belonging and shared identity. This can be especially beneficial for those who may find other social interactions challenging.

  3. Emotional Regulation (Managed Excitement/Frustration): Experiencing the highs and lows of a game (excitement from a touchdown, frustration from a penalty) in a supported environment can help individuals learn to regulate and express their emotions in socially appropriate ways.

  4. Vocabulary and Communication Skills: Discussing players, teams, and game strategies can expand vocabulary and provide natural opportunities for conversation and storytelling.

  5. Sensory Engagement (Controlled Environment): While a live game can be overwhelming, watching on TV allows for a controlled sensory experience. The visual stimulation of the game, combined with the sounds, can be engaging, and volume can be adjusted as needed.

  6. Physical Activity (Adapted Play): For those able to participate in adapted sports, football-related activities can improve gross motor skills, coordination, and teamwork. Activities like throwing, catching, or running simple drills can be beneficial.

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Making Football Accessible and Engaging

Here are some tips to help individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism enjoy the football season:

  • Start with Simplified Rules: Don't overwhelm with every rule. Focus on the basics: the goal is to get the ball to the end zone!

  • Visual Aids: Use team logos, player pictures, or a simplified play diagram to help identify teams and understand actions.

  • Structured Watching: Watch the game in a calm, familiar environment. Take breaks as needed, and keep the volume at a comfortable level.

  • Focus on a Favorite Player/Team: Having a specific player or team to root for can make the game more engaging and easier to follow.

  • Fan Gear Fun: Wearing a jersey or team colors can enhance the sense of belonging and excitement.

  • Discuss the Game: Ask simple questions: "What happened there?" "Who scored?" "Are you happy the Eagles won?" This encourages communication.

  • Adapted Play: If possible, participate in modified football activities. This could be as simple as throwing a soft football in a park or joining an adaptive sports league. Focus on fun and participation, not competition.


At Harrell Homes Assisted Living, we embrace the upcoming football season as another wonderful opportunity to foster social growth, cognitive engagement, and community spirit. Whether it's cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles together or engaging in our own adapted "game day" activities, we're ready for a season of excitement and connection!


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