The First Annual iMatter Surf Camp

September 24, 2007

Westhampton, N.Y. (August 16, 2007) – Community Options, Inc., a national nonprofit organization providing residential and employment choices for individuals with developmental disabilities, will be hosting its first annual “iMatter Surfing Camp” for Children with Autism at Cupsogue Beach on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2007.
Dr. Jessica Guberman, an organizational psychologist who grew up in Long Island and found her passion for surfing on its beaches, pioneered the surf camp to help children with Autism to experience the physical, psycho social, cognitive, and recreational benefits of aquatics. “Families were so eager to sign their children up for the event and to participate in an innovative activity that connects children to the fun and therapeutic advantages of the water,” says Guberman, Executive Director of Community Options. Community Options serves families from the five boroughs of New York City, Long Island, Northern New Jersey and throughout the country.
The iMatter Surfing Camp was inspired by research that supports the concept that water is the ideal medium for exercise, and to rehabilitate the body. For children with Autism, aquatic therapy focuses on therapeutic, play-based functional movement, improving range of motion, helping to facilitate neurodevelopmental growth, improved body awareness, increased balance, sensory integration, mobility skills, and most importantly, having fun.