What is Special Olympics: YAP? Special Olympics: Young Athletes Program is a sport and play program for children with and without intellectual disabilities (ID), ages 2 to 7 years old. The mission of the Young Athletes Program is to provide a fun and safe environment where children can learn and develop. The Young Athletes program provides age appropriate activities and games that foster physical development as well as social and emotional development. Young Athletes introduces basic sport skills such as running, kicking and throwing. Children also learn to share, take turns and follow directions. Young Athletes offers families, teachers, caregivers and the surrounding community the chance to share the joy of sports with all children. Young Athletes is a fun way for children to get active and learn how to take care of their bodies and live a healthy and active lifestyle. Young Athletes can set the stage for a life of physical activity, friendships and learning. |
Our MissionThe establishment of this club will grant students the opportunity to aesthetically enrich their academic experiences here at Merrimack College by teaching the significance of building community. We are a volunteer group, serving the local North Andover and surrounding area. The students will exhibit compassion, love, and knowledge as they work with young children with special needs. Students will develop communication skills with colleagues, parents, and children. Students will help create lesson plans, and directly apply knowledge from the classroom to the community. This Club will encourage leaders to emerge and serve as role models for these young athletes. |