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 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 under 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 similar programs designed to introduce future Special
Olympics athletes to fundamental sports skills. The
Young Athlete Program
now opens the door for participation of 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 development needs of children, ages 2 ˝ 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 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 which help promote social
development. Most importantly, families will learn of the potential of their
child through their preparation for participation in sport.
To register for the Young Athlete Program, download a brochure and fill out the
registration form attached. If you have questions or would like more
information, please contact Kathy Edenzon at  , or call (609)896-8000 x277.
Young Athlete Program Brochure
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Get
started today! Download the Young Athlete Program Activity Guide. The Guide
lists alternative equipment to use while you wait to receive your kit.