By Kayla Bruch

Children in P.A. learn how to move their bodies

Feb 8, 2015 | 11:25 AM

In Prince Albert there are a minimal amount of programs offered for children with disabilities wanting to become competitive athletes.

However, starting on Feb. 25, Special Olympics Canada will be hosting two programs in Prince Albert. Active Start for two to six-year-olds and Fundamentals for children aged seven to 12.

“It provides a space where kids can learn the fundamental movement skills that are required for sports but it’s in an environment where it’s welcoming, safe, fun, [and] family-friendly, it’s non-competitive,” said Amy Bosche, youth development coordinator for Special Olympics Saskatchewan. “The nice thing about this program is their siblings are also included even if they don’t have an intellectual or developmental disability. The whole entire family is welcome to come and… play some fun games, and get some activity together.”

These two programs are being run all over the province. Bosche said they are working towards developing the skills of the children while they are young in hopes they will join the Special Olympics team when they are adults.

“[In] Special Olympics we focus on athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so we have athletes with Down syndrome, with Autism, FASD [Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder], ADHD [Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder], [and] acquired brain injuries.”

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However, Bosche said children without disabilities are also welcome to join.

“You don’t need a diagnosis to come and register. You can register if your child is having difficulty in [gym] class at school, or maybe a little bit behind on the fundamental movement skills.”

On Saturday Bosche with help from KidStart and University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing volunteers, led children in games and activities during S.O. Give it a Go.

“It’s just like a come try it out day, so we have eight different activities the kids can come and try out,” she said. “They get a little passport to go through each station and at the end they get a t-shirt and some other goodies from Special Olympics.”

The programs cost $20 for a 12-week session and will run every Tuesday night.

To register or to find more information about the programs check out the Special Olympics website.

kbruch@panow.com

On Twitter: @KaylaBruch1