I had the opportunity, several years ago, to be a “hugger” for the Special Olympics in my town. As a hugger, I got to stand at the finish line where special kids were foot racing. As these kids reached the end of the race, I had the privilege (and I do mean privilege) of running up to the participant and hugging him or her. All the participants had “huggers” waiting for them to cross the finish line.
I’ll admit, I was a bit uncomfortable at first. I’m not a naturally “huggy” person with kids other than my own. But after a few races I was really getting into it. It was an experience I will never forget. For these kids, just having participated in the race made them feel like champions. Some of them raised fisted hands in the air, shouting “Woo-hoo! I did it!” And nobody seemed to care who won. “This,” I thought to myself, “Is the way life is supposed to be.”
What can the Special Olympics do for my child?
The Special Olympics is a non-profit organization which offers FREE, year-round athletic training to participants in 26 summer and winter sports. These activities include things like basketball, softball, swimming, horseback riding, sailing, bowling, roller skating, golf, skiing, volleyball, football, and more. That means, at no cost to you, your child will be taught the sport and given the opportunity to practice. Your child can make friends with other children having similar disabilities, learn the benefits of physical exercise, and have the experience of setting and achieving goals.
Who is eligible?
1. Participants must be at least eight years old; however, training and sport programs are available to children as young as six. (Participants cannot receive ribbons or enter competition until they are eight.) There is no maximum age limit.
2. Participants must have an intellectual disability, which would be defined as “a condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind characterized by impairment of skills and overall intelligence in areas such as cognition, language, and motor and social abilities. Intellectual disability can occur with or without any other physical or mental disorders. Although reduced level of intellectual functioning is the characteristic feature of this disorder, the diagnosis is made only if it is associated with a diminished ability to adapt to the daily demands of the normal social environment.”
(Note: The Special Olympics and the Paralympics are two separate and distinct organizations.)
How do we get enrolled?
At the Special Olympics Website, use their program locator to find the one nearest you. You will need to complete a registration form with your child’s address and medical information.
If you hadn’t considered it before, the Special Olympics offers a fantastic opportunity for children with disabilities to compete and excel in a safe and friendly environment. The benefits are endless. And there are plenty of ways for parents to get involved.
Bring out the “champion” in your child and be a part of something spectacular…the Special Olympics!