SOCCER
Soccer is one of the few activities that is recognized and played by people around the world. Children on the spectrum can use soccer to enrich their lives in a fun, family environment, which is not the therapy they get every day. Parents may wish to take advantage of soccer programs that are structured to ensure that children with special needs:
· have fun playing soccer
· understand the fundamentals of the game
· learn teamwork and fair play
· increase positive self-esteem
· become more physically fit
· meet and be comfortable with new people
Kids with special needs are estimated to make up approximately 10% of the school-age population. Special schools and classrooms can isolate these children so they would benefit from a program that is structured to integrate our special kids through the assistance and encouragement of "buddies", to help these players both on and off the field.
Courtesy of Peter van der Heijden, AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) VIP Program, Westchester, NY
(917) 952-4049, peter@vanderheijden.org, www.aysoarea3t.org/vip
All Rights Reserved
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