Resources to work with special needs children

[miraclegro]

I have a possibility to eventually work with a downs child and am looking for ideas for coaching plus therapeutic tips if i do this. It may never happen, but the mom is trying to find out abouti it.

Thanks, Pat

[jenlyon60]

You might want to check out the Special Olympics figure skating program. They have their own skills levels that are broken down differently than either ISI or USFS Basic Skills.

I have friends who have worked with Special Olympics figure skating, and I've judged at regional and state games the past couple years. It's a very rewarding experience watching all the SO skaters each year.

[Isk8NYC]

Good luck! This is a very rewarding job - the skaters are always excited and committed.

http://www.specialolympics.org/NR/rdonlyres/ehm3a3rymrlrucaaqcpzqhq6ygl4khbj3jxlhm2fvprqfljkgt k4x3wkyrryjr6yp2njnyqqv3g5sgmd7pd5l3org3g/Figure+Skating+Rules,+Protocol+and+Etiquette.pdf

This page has a link to use for requesting a coaching guild:
http://www.specialolympics.org/Special+Olympics+Public+Website/English/Coach/Coaching_Guides/default.htm

This page is detailed for figure skating coaches:
http://www.specialolympics.org/Special+Olympics+Public+Website/English/Coach/Coaching_Guides/Figure+Skating/default.htm

[Mrs Redboots]

There's a Downs skater on the UK adult circuit who skates a lot better than I do, and almost invariably finishes ahead of me in solo artistic competitions. He does artistic and free dance, but not compulsory dance as he has trouble staying in rhythm. But he's an excellent skater, and lovely human being!

[flo]

The USFSA has teaching manuals they can send you. They're very helpful.

[samba]

There's a Downs skater on the UK adult circuit who skates a lot better than I do, and almost invariably finishes ahead of me in solo artistic competitions. He does artistic and free dance, but not compulsory dance as he has trouble staying in rhythm. But he's an excellent skater, and lovely human being!


I remember when I first saw this guy, he skated to Mac and Mable's "I wont send Roses" this song moves me at the best of times and my coach and myself were in tears watching it, not because of his condition just the way he portayed the music.

And here's the man himself:

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/terry-jones/scan0001.gif