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Young Athletes

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With emphasis on training and participation through activities and play, rather than competition, the Young Athlete Program provides children ages 2-7 with gross motor skills training, group interaction and socialization opportunities.  These basic skills will prepare the Young Athletes for future participation in Special Olympics sports. The Young Athlete Program has officially replaced the Play Activities Program.

Benefits of Participation

  • Increases a young child’s strength and coordination in preparation for sports participation.
  • Inclusive sports opportunity for children ages 2-7 with or without disabilities
  • Introduces young children to group play, cooperation and awareness of rules.
  • Focus placed on socialization, interaction and fun.
  • Teaches “everyday” skills
  • Fosters family interaction
  • Provides an opportunity for younger participants that are not eligible for Special Olympics sports

Basic Skill Areas

  • Foundational skills (warm ups, eye/hand coordinator, and gross motor skills)
  • Walking & Running
  • Balance & Jumping
  • Trapping & Catching
  • Throwing
  • Striking
  • Kicking
  • Advanced skills

 

Young Athlete Calendar

SONC will periodically offer training in the  Young Athlete Program. Contact Lorrin Brown if you are interested in getting trained in Young Athlete or would like to receive a Young Athlete’s Kit.

See if the Young Athlete Program is offered to athletes in your local community! Search our Local Programs.

Downloads

Young Athletes Registration Form

Young Athletes Registration Form in Spanish

Young Athletes Sports info

Young Athletes Certificate

Young Athlete FAQ

Young Athletes Activity Guide PDF

Young Athletes sample parent letter

Young Athletes Logo

Other Useful Links

The Lesson Plan Page

Special Olympics Resources

Flaghouse

Preschool Rock

PE Central

The Leonard Gordon Institute for Human Development Through Play