Special Olympics Estevan gave local residents an introduction to a pair of upcoming programs during a Try It event Friday night at the Estevan Leisure Centre’s multipurpose room.
Nearly a dozen youths and their parents tried out different activities that were offered, some of which will be available through a couple of programs Special Olympics will run in Estevan during the first three months of the year.
“All of the feedback that I’ve gotten from it so far has been positive, and all of the parents said they felt comfortable and welcomed, and the kids were all smiling and having fun,” said local organizer Kandyce Meili.
Special Olympics is bringing Active Start and FUNdamentals programs to Estevan. Active Start is for those ages two to six, while FUNdamentals is for who are seven to 12.
Both are for children with disabilities. Active Start teaches basic motor skills such as walking, running, jumping and throwing in a fun and safe environment, while FUNdamentals offers a transition to basic sports skills while maintaining an atmosphere of fun and meaningful interaction.
“Each week we work on one skill, and different activities within that skill, so we’re excited to get that started,” said Meili.
Nine people have registered thus far, but Meili said they have a commitment from about 20 people. Some of the people who attended Try It also voiced an interest in participating in the program.
Active Start and FUNdamentals will continue weekly for the next 11 Friday nights until the end of March.
Among the activities offered on Friday night included tee-ball, basketball and bocce ball. Kids also had fun as they rolled a ball to hit a target, tossed a ball to knock a bucket from a table, ran a bean bag from one buck to another, and jogged from one frog cut-out to another.
Meili pointed out that it’s not too late for people to register, and they can still sign up once the programs begin. She’s looking forward to Friday night, when the kids will be split into their age groups, and they will run through a full program.
