Young Athletes School Model

The benefits of physical activity and play go beyond sports. Special Olympics Young Athletes helps children interact with each other and develop important communication, learning and self-help skills. Starting motor activities early is very important for children with intellectual disabilities. Children who receive sport at an early age will be more capable of doing challenging movement as they grow older.

Structure

Implementing in the School

Safety and Space

Not too big; not too small. Make sure the space matches the needs of the activity and your group size
Indoor vs outdoors. Young Athletes is great for indoors and outdoors—but be mindful of spacing and safety.
One space vs two spaces. If the class is large, you can consider dividing the class into two groups.

Structure

Establish a routine. Routines provide clear expectations.
Plan for rest breaks. Provide a place where children can rest of they become overstimulated.
Encourage different modes of movement to transition between activities.
Use music to signal transitions.
Unified Partners. Have other children or children without ID support younger children.

Engage Family Members

Young Athletes School Model

Fequency

Timing

Setting

Coaches

Inclusion

Volunteers

Safety and Space

Structure

Young Athletes