INCLUDE FUN

Participation in recreational activities give children the opportunity to learn new skills, develop peer relationships and gain independence. They provide children with life experiences outside of school and their home setting. Recreational activities foster healthy risk-taking behavior and improve confidence. The benefits of recreational activities is universal for all children with or without disabilities 1. All children should have access to recreational activities to provide social engagement, belonging, autonomy and appropriate level of challenge 2. 

When children with disabilities have access to recreational participation, it not only optimizes physical function, but improves overall well- being. Participants in Special Olympics have been shown to demonstrate improved self-esteem. 

The benefit of recreational activities extend beyond the activity itself. Participants have access to peer support and families have the opportunity to develop relationships with those who have shared experiences1.