Swimming classes are easy to enroll in no matter what season it is. Many facilities offer heated pools, so there is no need to worry about your little one not wanting to get in because the pool is cold. Swimming classes can be started as young as 1 ½ to 2 years old, depending on your child’s abilities. Since most facilities have several swim instructors on staff, it is easy to find a class that can give your child one-on-one time.
Most children with special needs will enjoy the feeling of the calm, warm water and enjoy the activity of swimming. Some children with autism may have issues with being held and guided through the water by a stranger. If that is the case, you can always don a bathing suit and join them for assistance. Swimming lessons help build muscle control and strength, and it is a fun, cool-down activity to do when the weather is unbearable. Investing in comfortable safety floats, earplugs, goggles, nose plug, and possibly even a head cap will make your child more comfortable with going in the water.
Martial Arts Classes
Think taking a martial arts class is all about violence? Think again. Martial arts classes, like Tae Kwon Do, actually teach children discipline and self-esteem. Since many studios have several junior black belt instructors (usually aged 15 and up), you can arrange for them to assist your child in the class.
Your child will learn forms, a group of movements that utilize different defense techniques. The first few belt forms are easy for all children to learn, and they do not usually partake in sparring other students until a little bit later. Martial arts is especially good for some children with special needs because it is an activity that they can do at their own pace. Instructors of children’s classes usually incorporate many fun games with the learning, and know how to handle a group that has a short attention span. Martial arts can help you children improve on their memorization skills, their socialization skills, and even their discipline.
Many communities offer affordable martial arts classes that run for three months or less. These classes offer a great introduction to martial arts without the need to invest in long-term classes at a traditional studio.
There are many different classes available for children with special needs. Enrolling your child into classes that they enjoy will benefit them as a person overall. They will develop new skills and even improve in their therapy sessions.
Photo by pennuja
