In the wake of Eunice Shriver’s death I thought I would share a recent debate that has been evolving within the Down syndrome support group my wife and I belong to.   The question is about inclusive sports for children with special needs.   Some people believe organizations like Special Olympics and Challenger Division Little League have reached their useful life. Here are my thoughts on the whole inclusion debate as they relate to sports.

Sports

Don’t be afraid to enroll your child in sports.  Our son, despite having atlantoaxial instability, is involved in soccer and swimming.  Both of his programs are geared for kids with special needs rather than typical teams.  Could we chose a typical program?  Sure we could.  Why do we chose the special program?  Because our son needs the special attention he gets from the staff and assistants.  The other determining factor is that our son still doesn’t have the endurance and attention span for a typical soccer program.  Does that mean he will never compete with his typical peers?  Absolutely not.

Inclusive?

Should you disregard athletic opportunities that are not inclusive?  That is a personal decision.  If your child is young it is one you will make for him.  As he grows it is a decision he may make for himself.  Consider these before enrolling in a fully inclusive sports program:

• Your child’s age
• Your child’s understanding of the particular sport
• Your child’s endurance
• Any health or medical issues

If you decide to have your child participate in a fully inclusive sports program ask to meet the coaches before the activity begins.  Make sure the coach knows your child’s strengths and weaknesses.  Consider bringing your child to the meeting to meet the coach ahead of time.  Consider what accommodations may need to be made to ensure your child’s experience is successful without disrupting the other players.  See if any of the typical players already know your child.  Perhaps there is a classmate on the team.  Having a familiar face on the team may make it more comfortable for your child.

Special Sports

Don’t feel guilty if you decide to pursue special needs sports opportunities.  Our son enjoys a special soccer program in our town.  We appreciate the extra attention he receives.  The coaches and assistants are helping him become a successful soccer player.  We are also looking forward to the athletic challenges and lasting friendships he will make in Special Olympics.

Is your special child involved in sports?  How do you approach the inclusion issue?

Photo credit: uploaded to Flickr by foreversouls

Benjamin Strong is the Director of Marketing for the United States Coast Guard Amver search and rescue program.  He is the father of three boys, the oldest with Down syndrome.  You can follow his professional exploits on the Amver blog or on Twitter.  His personal thoughts are here.