YOUNG ATHLETES
Young Athletes is a sport and play program for children with and without intellectual disabilities ages 2 to 7 years old. Young Athletes introduces basic sport skills such as running, kicking and throwing. It also offers families, teachers, caregivers and people from the community the chance to share the joy of sports with all children.
Young Athletes provides children with activities and games that meet their individual skill and ability levels, while allowing them to play together in a fun and inclusive environment. The program shows that all children should be valued for their talents and abilities. Children of all abilities take part, and they all benefit.
Benefits of Young Athletes activities
Children learn how to play with others and develop important skills for learning.
Children also learn to share, take turns and follow directions. These skills help children in family, community and school activities.
Young Athletes is a fun way for children to get fit.
It is important to teach children healthy habits while they are young. This can set the stage for a life of physical activity, friendships and learning.
Young Athletes is easy to do and fun for all.
It can be done at home, in schools or in the community using the Young Athletes Activity Guide and basic equipment.
Everyone benefits from Special Olympics Young Athletes.
Through Young Athletes, all children, their families and people in the community are welcomed into the world of Special Olympics and can be a part of an inclusive team.
- Motor skills
- Social, emotional and learning skills
- Expectations
- Sport readiness
- Acceptance
Motor skills
Children with ID who took part in an eight-week Young Athletes curriculum saw seven month’s development in motor skill. This is compared to a three-month gain in motor skills for children who did not participate.
Social, emotional and learning skills.
Parents and teachers of children who took part in the Young Athletes curriculum said the children learned skills that they will use in pre-primary school. The children were more enthusiastic and confident. They also played better with other children.
Expectations
Family members say that Young Athletes raised their hopes for their child’s future.
Sport readiness
Young Athletes helps children develop important movement and sport skills. These skills get them ready to take part in sports and recreation activities when they are older.
Acceptance
Inclusive play has a benefit for children without ID as well. It helps them to better understand and accept others.
Young Athletes Interest Form
Young Athletes is coming to the 2025 Summer Games. This form is to express interest in attending Young Athletes at Summer Games. Once collected, your local program will reach out to you regarding registration.
Equipment and Training
Equipment will be provided to a county or school free of charge as equipment is available. Training from the state office is required before starting Young Athletes. Contact [email protected] to schedule your training or for more information.
