Kean University’s Department of Occupational Therapy, in collaboration with the special education, therapeutic recreation, athletics and physical education departments, will host the Special Olympics New Jersey Young Athlete Program (YAP) on Sunday, April 15, from 9:30 a.m. to noon in Harwood Arena.
For the third consecutive year, Kean students, faculty and staff will assist young athletes and their families to navigate activities targeting specific gross-motor and visual-perceptual motor skills necessary as a foundation for the child’s main occupation – play.
Children will learn how to control their movements, as well as how to follow directions. Relatives will learn how to support their children’s learning and ways to get involved in their young athletes’ activities.
Sporting activities and related skills include:
- Foundational – body awareness and fitness
- Walking & running – “traveling” movement
- Balance & jumping – stability and mobility
- Trapping & catching – introductory ball
- Throwing – arm/hand and eye coordination
- Striking – upper body strength and visual motor
- Kicking – lower body coordination
- Free play area – alternate movement opportunities
The YAP is a free program designed for children with intellectual disabilities, ages 2 ½ to 7, and serves as the foundation for play, fun and future participation in the regular Special Olympics program for people ages 8 and older.
Registration is required by Monday, April 9, at www.kean.edu/specialolympics. Families are encouraged to bring young athlete's siblings.
For more information, please contact Dr. Mary Falzarano at 908.737.5854 or mafalzar@kean.edu.
