Special Olympics Arizona Young Athletes Program

The Young Athletes Program is an innovative sports/play program for children ages 2 1/2 to 7, who have intellectual disabilities. Through the Young Athletes Program exercises and activities, a child acquires and improves fundamental skills such as balance, running, jumping, catching, throwing, and kicking. The program is also loaded with opportunities for language development, social interaction and learning numbers, colors, shapes and more.

• Designed specifically for children who have intellectual disabilities
• Activities are designed to be fun and playful, increasing a child’s interest and participation
• Program is flexible and can be used one-on-one at home, in the classroom or a community setting
• Activities are adaptable based on participants’ skill level
• Fun exercise and physical development
• Colorful, child-sized equipment
• Introduction to sports skills and language
• Develop social skills
• Learn colors, numbers and shapes
• Each child receives a trophy

Parents, the Young Athletes Program offers fun and fitness for the whole family!

• Parent/child activity groups where the whole family can exercise together
• Groups meet weekly for one hour
• Locations throughout Arizona
• Siblings are welcome to attend
• Yearly Recognition Ceremonies where your child receives a trophy
• Families make meaningful connections and exchange valuable resources
• No fees to participate

Special Education Teachers, the Young Athletes Program is a great addition to your classroom!

• Available to Developmental Preschool and Special Education classrooms Kindergarten through 2nd Grade
• The Young Athletes Program includes:
• Activity Guide with all the Young Athletes activities
• 58-piece Equipment Kit with balls, cones, balance beam, etc.
• Instructional DVD
• Training provided by Special Olympics Arizona
• All students participate, regardless of diagnosis

You can be a part of the Young Athletes Program in several ways:

• Become a Volunteer Trainer
• Start a Young Athletes play activities group in your community
• Connect with a group in your area
• Train your own Young Athlete at home
• Offer the Young Athletes Program in your Developmental Preschool or Adapted PE class

Please visit the Forms area of this website to view all the Young Athletes Program Forms.