Young Athlete Program
History - Special Olympics has provided opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, ages 8 and up, to participate in sports training and competition since the late 1960s. Through the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation, Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Founder of Special Olympics, created the "Let's Play to Grow" program in the 1970’s, designed for children younger then the age of Special Olympics eligibility. New Jersey introduced a similar program during the 1988 Summer Games at Princeton University. Since then, local programs throughout the state have implemented like programs designed to introduce future Special Olympics athletes to fundamental sports skills. The Young Athlete Program now opens the door for participation by those athletes throughout the state at an age of transition – from early intervention program completion to pre-school and early elementary school years.
Description - The Young Athlete Program was created in consultation with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, to meet the physical and developmental needs of children, ages 2 ½ to 7, in the areas of physical activity and play, with an emphasis on sports skill development. The activities presented in the program are designed to develop the fundamental prerequisite skills to prepare athletes for future participation in sports. The program includes user-friendly instructions and a complete kit of sports activity equipment. The design of this program provides flexibility for the parent, sibling, paraprofessional, teacher, and volunteer to conduct activities. The Young Athlete Program is designed to be used by parents in the home and can be used in a preschool / school environment, playgroup or one-on-one situation.
Benefits - The Young Athlete Program offers families the opportunity to share in the success of their future athlete. It provides an experience that will lead to an appreciation of fitness and sport for the whole family. Inclusive activities are encouraged to help promote social development. Most importantly, families will learn about the potential of their child through preparation for participation in sport.
To register for the Young Athlete Program download the registration form. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Special Olympics New Jersey at (609)896-8000. Please click here to download the Young Athlete Program Brochure.
Get started today! Download the Young Athlete Program Activity Guide. The Guide lists alternative equipment to use while you wait to receive your kit.
Sign up for the Young Athlete Program at the Special Olympics New Jersey Sports Complex in Lawrenceville on Saturday Mornings. Please call (609)896-8000 or e-mail for more information.