Head Over Heels for Athletes with Autism

A special group of athletes has taken the by storm. They’re participants in Athletes with Autism (AWA), a recreational athletic program designed for children with autism, and they’ve warmed the hearts of NAC staffers.

“This is one of my favorite classes to teach,” said Jenifer Campbell-Harger, an AWA gymnastics instructor. “I get so much out of it, I can’t put it into words. The kids are so much fun. They’re all so different, and it’s wonderful to see how they develop over time.”

Children can choose from gymnastics, swimming, and assorted other sports that help regulate sensory challenges while boosting confidence, spatial awareness, core body strength, and interpersonal skills.

“With gym and swimming, the kids can focus on themselves, and not worry about losing -- everybody wins,” said Kim Chernikovich, NAC Program Director.

“The gymnastics class offers so many ways for the kids to get sensory input; bouncing in particular is so good for them,” added Campbell-Harger. “This gives them a chance to discover their own bodies and be with kids in their own peer group.”

AWA provides an outlet for children who might not otherwise be able to join in.

“Oscar loves the physical activities in the gymnastics room - he always looks forward to the class and getting his energy out,” said Gail Szigeti, whose 4-year-old son Oscar has participated for more than a year. “I think it’s wonderful that the NAC took a chance and started a program for kids that are on the spectrum, and it makes me feel good that it’s raising awareness for kids with autism.”

Like Campbell-Harger, all AWA instructors have experience teaching their specific sport, and are safety and CPR certified. They also understand that flexibility is the name of the game for this class -- and not just in the physical sense. Sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of its participants.

“The class is structured, which the kids need, but not so structured or rigid that they can’t adjust to it,” Campbell-Harger said. “These kids can’t constantly sit or take turns, and some don’t like to be touched. When we need to, we rotate on to something else.”

“The teacher was very encouraging, caring and high-energy; she is great at dealing with the kids,” Szigeti said.

The twice weekly class kicked off in November and will run through May.

“The idea is to try and have the kids come in and do something different. It’s not a short session, because with this group of kids, the more they come in, the more they get comfortable and are excited about the class,” said Chernikovich. “Kids need this -- it teaches them not only how to be team players, but it teaches them about life.”

Interested in enrolling your child? Late registrants are welcome. Visit www.newtownathletic.com or contact Kim Chernikovich.