Special Needs Gymnastics
Jamie Pacton:
Gymnastics can benefit kids tremendously, especially kids with special needs.
Liam, my 7-year-old with autism, has been working with a gymnastics coach for almost two years, and in that time, he’s made huge gains in motor skills, following directions, expressive language, and confidence. …
When he first started, he was timid, resistant, and uncoordinated; now his confidence shines through in every activity he completes. …
COACH SARAH BANCK:
My overall philosophy on children with special needs is very similar to how I approach coaching children of all abilities. Confidence comes from success, however children cannot make the distinctions between failing at a skill and being a failure. This is why progressions or deescalating a skill is so imperative in teaching. Adjusting and breaking a skill into its most minute parts assures individual success regardless of skill level and is pertinent in developing a positive sense of self and task mastery. …
bellabounce 1:43 am on September 29, 2016 Permalink |
Reblogged this on Bella Bounces and commented:
I love this! I’m learning more and more about different disabilities and how to adapt my coaching and I can honestly say that Jamie has unlocked an absolutely vital key – breaking things down. I’ve met a lot of children who have little confidence in their own ability and become easily upset or frustrated if they perceive that they ‘can’t’ do something and more often than not these aren’t people with whom you can explain that it won’t be perfect the first time around! Little victories working towards a bigger long term goal, even if the long term goal is one complete skill is the absolute key to keeping them keen, learning and having fun. Infinite patience and creativity when teaching little bits of skills is also required, ’cause who wants to do step 1 over and over again?
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