Research-based physical activity program launched

Posted: September 30, 2014 2:35 p.m.

The Sport for All program will provide participants with the opportunity to develop a range of fundamental movement skills in a variety of games and activities.
The Sport for All program will provide participants with the opportunity to develop a range of fundamental movement skills in a variety of games and activities. Photo courtesy of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies

Sports For All program promotes opportunities for physical activities for those with intellectual disabilities.

The Faculty of Kinesiology & Health Studies at the University of Regina, in collaboration with Special Olympics Canada, has launched a research-based physical activity program for children between the ages of 7 and 12 years with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This weekly physical activity program – called Sports For All – will provide participants with the opportunity to develop a range of fundamental movement skills in a variety of games and activities. There will also be an introduction to team sports to support the successful transition of these skills into community-based activities. A low instructor-to-child ratio will allow for individualized attention to provide children with a fun and successful learning experience.

“This is another example of the University of Regina’s commitment to enhancing the educational opportunities available to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” says University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons. “For the past several years, our Campus For All program has provided a valuable inclusive post-secondary experience for young adults. Now, the Sports For All program will provide opportunities for children with intellectual disabilities to participate more fully in specialized physical activity programs.”

The costs of this program are partially subsidized through Special Olympics Canada as a research initiative examining the performance of movement skills and fitness capacities among children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
 
The 10-week program begins October 1, 2014, and will be held on Wednesdays from 5:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m., in Gym 2 at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health and Sport at the University of Regina

For more information, e-mail Dr. Kerri Staples at kerri.staples@uregina.ca.