Youth Bureau to Hold Adaptive Sports and Socialization Summer Program For Children with Disabilities
The Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau, in partnership with the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department and Smithtown Recreation Department, will host an Adaptive Sports and Socialization Summer Program for children and youth ages 6 - 17 with various types and levels of disabilities, who often experience higher barriers to participation in traditional sports and socialization opportunities.
The “Fitness, Friends & Fun” program’s focus will be on physical health and well-being; increasing physical health and positive relationships to one’s body; as well as nurturing the mind-body connection. Varied interactive, group activities will improve confidence, social and emotional skills, as well as strengthen and condition the body. This free program is fully funded by a Sports and Education municipal allocation from NYS Office of Children and Family Services and by the Town of Smithtown.
“This funding allows us an opportunity to provide a creative, interactive program for our local youth who don’t feel as comfortable in traditional sports and recreation programs. It’s our hope that this will open a door to those students and allow them to get Fit, make some new Friends and have Fun while doing so.” - Stacey Sanders, Smithtown Youth Bureau Executive Director
All sessions will be provided from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM at the Town of Smithtown Senior Citizen Center, located at 420 Middle Country Road in Smithtown.
· Session 1: July 6th, 13th, & 20th (Thursdays)
· Session 2: July 18th, 25th, & August 1st (Tuesdays)
· Session 3: July 27th, August 3rd, & 10th (Thursdays)
· Session 4: August 15th, 22nd, & 29th (Tuesdays)
· Session 5: August 17th, 24th, & 31st (Thursdays)
Each session will consist of guided adaptive physical fitness instruction/training led by a certified professional, to increase participants’ physical health. Other scheduled session components will consist of nurturing the ‘mind-body connection’ through breathwork, yoga and meditation led by a certified teacher. Unique, engaging activities will include exploring mindfulness with calming instruments like singing bowls and Zen chimes.
With an adaptive and accessible approach, participants will work together learning and practicing techniques for physical conditioning, stress relief, improved balance and stability, increased body awareness and emotional regulation.
Other group activities will add variety and socialization opportunities, including music and dancing, games/prizes, crafts, artwork, as well as science-related and food preparation instruction. Participants must be able to function in a group setting without one-to-one assistance. Exceptions are made if the child’s family or school provide a shadow to assist the participant.
Applications are now being accepted for one 3-day session per participant on a first come, first served basis for a session of your choice. In instances where the preferred session is at maximum capacity, alternative session choices will be considered for participant placement. If enrollment allows, extra sessions may also be offered to participants, in addition to their preferred session.
To apply, submit an application online using the Google Form, or print out the application and either scan it and email to youthbureau@smithtownny.gov or mail to 161 E. Main Street Smithtown, NY 11787.
Applications must be received by June 27th.
Contact the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau via phone at (631) 360-7595 OR email youthbureau@smithtownny.gov with any questions.
