From the World Games in Athens

Family and Young Athlete Seminar, Leicester, U.K., November 2011


FSN + YA= ?

Barbara Warman, DirectorFamily and Young Athlete Programs

Special Olympics International


From the World Games in Athens


To the EU Seminar in Leicester


Family leaders reach out to:

• Recruit young athletes through parent organizations and community agencies.

• Build Family Support Networks that include families of young athletes.


YA Success depends on Families

• Using the activity guide at home with siblings and young athletes.

• Volunteering with YA to lead or assist with group activities.

YA Study 2009 - 2011

SampleStates: Rhode Island and North CarolinaClasses/Teachers: 52 Preschool Classes

Children : 234 Children (114 YA, 120 Control)Age: 3-5 years of ageGender: 187 Boys, 47 GirlsPrimary Diagnosis: 173 with Developmental Delays,

47 with AutismSpectrum Disorder,

14 Other

Measurable results for children

Overall, children in the YA program made 7 months gain in motor skills in 2-3 months.

Positive experiences for families Children gained social as well as motor skills. Parents learned to play and have fun with their child. Family expectations were raised as they saw young

athletes demonstrate new skills.


“We have the ability to change the lives of our athletes through

encouraging families with Young Athletes to Join the Movement…”

Sydney Fox, Global Family Leader


FSN + YA= Athlete Opportunities!


FSN + YA= Family Opportunties!


FSN + YA= Growth of the Movement

From the World Games in Athens

Documents

leicester family

family engagement

young athlete seminar

family tent

athens family

family night

developing family

family expectations