It was a very exciting day when Antonio Hovden hopped for the first time.
Antonio was one of the first children to participate in a Special Olympics BC Active Start program, which helps children ages two to six with intellectual disabilities learn essential gross motor skills in a fun environment full of movement games and beaming faces.
Initially an anxious athlete-in-training, Antonio soon blossomed, sharing his energy and enthusiasm as he showed great development in his abilities and confidence.
Antonio still had trouble with hopping. He had the technique and movements, but just couldn't put it all together and hop. Then the day came, in a session near the end of his second year of the program, when Antonio hopped. With his mother and older sister watching, Antonio seemed to glide from one floor marker to the other. Antonio's mom gave him a high five, while coaches and volunteers cheered. He spent the rest of the session hopping with ease and delight.
Antonio is now enjoying learning new skills in the FUNdamentals program, which is a continuation of the Active Start program for young athletes with intellectual disabilities ages seven to 11. The skills transition from basic movement skills to basic sports skills (basketball, soccer and baseball), providing participants with a more in-depth introduction to sport-related motor skills along with training and competition, while maintaining an atmosphere of fun and enthusiasm.
Special Olympics BC programs around the province are trying to bring this kind of joy and growth to more kids with intellectual disabilities. Volunteers are launching youth programs in their communities to meet the needs of these children who might feel isolated or left behind in conventional sport programs.
Active Start and FUNdamentals programs are a vital source of physical, cognitive and social development for children ages two to six (Active Start) and seven to 11 (FUNdamentals).
The athletes in training love being part of a group in the FUNdamentals program. They learned new skills, gained confidence, are willing to participate and now able to take turns. Antonio eagerly waits at the front door with his jacket and running shoes on to go to the program on Tuesdays. He can't wait to see all his friends and participate with them.
Active Start and FUNdamentals have a great deal to offer for parents and caregivers. While they participate and play with their young athletes-in-training, they develop a very close and unique bond.
The programs run Tuesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Roberts Creek Elementary School gym. For more information on the programs, contact Rachel Borer at 604-737-3125 or email [email protected].
The Gibsons Legion, the Sechelt Legion, the Town of Gibsons, Gibsons Lions Club and the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation have provided financial support for the programs.
- Submitted
