KEEN - Kids Enjoy Exercise Now

I just learned about this organization on Twitter today and wanted to share the information. KEEN - Kids Enjoy Exercise Now is a non profit organization in 8 cities in the USA and three cities in the United Kingdom. As described on the website:

"KEEN is a national, nonprofit volunteer-led organization that provides one-to-one recreational opportunities for children and young adults with developmental and physical disabilities at no cost to their families and caregivers. KEEN's mission is to foster the self-esteem, confidence, skills and talents of its athletes through non-competitive activities, allowing young people facing even the most significant challenges to meet their individual goals".

This seems like an excellent opportunity for children, their families and the volunteers. I wish it was in my area - I would definitely volunteer! Has anyone had any experiences with this organization? Would love to hear about it.

Go hiking!

Just finished reading an excellent article in Advance for PT/PTA's entitled Through the Trees. This is the story of identical twins who have autism and their experiences with hiking. You can view the entire article on their digital edition at Advance For PT/PTA's. The article offers some excellent benefits on hiking for children with developmental disabilities and their families.

Here were some of my favorite points:
1. Hiking is free.

2. The whole family benefits from the exercise - stress reduction, mood elevator and physical benefits of exercise.

3. Does not require intense social interaction.

4. Does not require a significant amount of coordination depending upon types of trails.

5. Sense of accomplishment.

Take the time to read the article - well worth it!

Reference: Mayer, R. (2009) Through the Trees. Advance for PT and PTAs. Sept 21, 2009 Vol 20 (19):11-13.

Adaptive Ice Skating

Now I know this is not the time of year to be discussing ice skating, but on this very hot day I can at least think about colder weather. Developmental Neurorehabilitation reports on an adaptive ice skating program which was evaluated. Twenty two children with developmental disabilities participated in a 1x/week group for 6 weeks. There was instructors for group lessons and individualized instruction as well. Attendance was high for the 6 sessions (83% attended). Parents reported improvements in their child's balance, lower extremity strength, endurance, self esteem and ability to participate in a group. One minor injury was reported. The authors conclude that the program was successful but would benefit from some minor changes.

Reference: Fragala-Pinkham, Maria A., Dumas, Helene M., Boyce, Megan, Peters, Christine Y., Haley, Stephen M. (2009) Evaluation of an adaptive ice skating programme for children with disabilities Developmental Neurorehabilitation 12(4):215- 223
UR - http://www.informaworld.com/10.1080/17518420902980100

5 Unique Physical Activity Programs for Children with Disabilities

After writing many previous blog posts on the importance of physical activity in all children, I wanted to list some specialized programs for children with disabilities that encourage physical activity. These activities are not available everywhere but it does offer some suggestions of what you could be proactive in starting in your community.

Hippotherapy - this is obvious to most therapists but wanted to mention it anyway. The American Hippotherapy Association supports the use of equine movement to support therapy goals.

Adaptive Skiing - there are some well established adapted ski programs in all areas. Here is a website, Adaptive Ski and Sports Programs, that lists most of the facilities that offer adaptive skiing.

Sailing - The Heart of Sailing Foundation introduces sailing skills to children with disabilities.

Bicycle Riding - Lose the Training Wheels is a bike riding instructional program for children with disabilities.

Surfing - Surfers Healing is a free surfing camp for children with autism.

Do you know of more unique opportunities for encouraging physical activity in children with disabilities? Please add to the list in the comments section.