Without knowing all the specifics playing in the park, and staying active, is a great way to stimulate most if not all the senses. Sensory overload and underload (can't think what the opposite is) can quite often be areas where stress and anxiety build up leading to what a lot people see as 'odd'. Having a place to unload is just as important to having a place to unwind. Sensory issues are a really important area for ASC and it's good to see research in this area

My ASD son also has ADHD so keeping active key! I take him for walks, take him swimming and hiking. He has a lot of energy!

Interesting. I honestly haven't noticed that yet in my son. But it's hard to say. If he's being active playing games with other kids, there are still things that can set him off. But in general, he does seem to be in a happier place when he's running around being active.

If I ever decide to go back to school to pursue a doctorate, my research will be with students who have emotional/behavioral disabilities and recreational therapy.

My kid resists doing much of anything, but he is a sensory seeker - like he loves roller coasters and generally does well when he gets a lot of external stimulus. As far as him having to exert energy, though - well, no, he just complains a lot.

I remember when he was 4 and we were visiting relatives, a cousin in his 20s spent the ENTIRE day swinging him around and throwing him up in the air and I just watched in complete amazement at how much he loved it and how well behaved he was that day. I wish I could hire someone to do that full time but he weighs 150 pounds now - lol.

Have your read Last Child in the Woods? It is about being in green space, but would apply to being outdoors in general. If that works for you child, you will have to incorporate it in his day. The Japanese take 'nature baths'. It really is good for the soul.