TEAM Resource Library Topic: Enrichment Programs
Enrichment programs offer children the opportunity to grow from experiences with visual arts, drama, dance, music, athletics, etc…
At their best, enrichment programs can enhance the lives of children through expanding horizons, building confidence and promoting personal growth. There are many enrichment programs in Northwest Arkansas to choose from. However, many programs do not 1) offer modified classes, 2) have a staff with specialized training in working with children with exceptional needs, and 3) provide a one-to-one ratio if needed. When researching opportunities for your child, these shortfalls may or may not be problematic depending on your child’s diagnosis and needs. In order to find the right fit for your child, do not be afraid to ask questions and preview programs before deciding whether or not to join.
Tefra Funding for Enrichment
If a child qualifies for Tefra and has a premium of less than $50.00 per month, then he/she is eligible for a benefit that pays for enrichment programs. Contact Renee Holmes with DDS at 479-444-1918 extension 3.
Arts Enrichment: TEAM Talent
When Occupational Therapist Whitney Garrison joined TEAM, she had a dream of offering special needs children and youth a dynamic, fun opportunity to engage in the Arts. The idea of “TEAM Talent” was born. The program offers participants an opportunity to collaborate with peers while being instructed and supervised by therapists. The program’s two foci are performing arts (fall) and visual arts (spring). Fall TEAM Talent Drama Classes culminate in a performance at the TEAM Christmas Party. Spring sessions end with an Art Show held in honor of all the TEAM Talent Artists. Weekly classes run from 4:30-5:30 p.m. during the regular academic year at TEAM’s Fayetteville clinic. There is a minimal fee to cover the cost of supplies (scholarships are available).
Music Enrichment: Kindermusik
There are several certified Kindermusik teachers in Northwest Arkansas that offer music enrichment programs for children ages 0-7. Speak to individual providers regarding their experience working with children with special needs.
Sports Enrichment: Miracle League NWA
In 2010 Northwest Arkansas’ first barrier-free (accessible, level surface) baseball fields and dugouts were built at the Randal Tyson Sports Complex in Springdale. TEAM’s own Family Support Coordinator, Amber Spencer, is a founding board member of the nonprofit that calls the fields home. She and countless other community volunteers and contributors have made Northwest Arkansas’ Miracle League possible. Today, the program offers children with special needs (4 and up) the joy of being part of their own baseball team. Miracle League offers both a Fall and Spring Season with games typically held on Saturday mornings. The cost is $25.00, though scholarships are available.
Sports Enrichment: Special Olympics
Special Olympics offers sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Through sports and physical activities, Special Olympics believes that individuals can achieve good health, personal growth, and self-confidence. Sports training is open to children as young as five years old; children must be at least eight to be eligible for competition. There are a range of competition areas such as track and field, aquatics, softball, volleyball, unified football, power lifting, bocce, cycling, basketball, bowling, speed skating, figure skating, floor hockey and gymnastics. Special Olympics strives to offer exceptionally trained volunteer coaches through offering a National Certification in Special Olympics Coaching. The field representative for Special Olympics Northwest Arkansas is Donna Kilmer (479-366-3216) donna@specialolympicsarkansas.org.
Agriculture Enrichment: 4H
4H is one of the oldest youth enrichment programs in the United States. The “H’s” in 4H stand for Head, Heart, Hands and Health. Enrichment programs include many hands-on activities such as caring for livestock, sewing, art, photography, cooking, food preservation and more. The Washington County 4H Enrichment Program serves children 5-19 years old and typically meets in Fayetteville at the Cooperative Extension Office (2536 North McConnell Avenue). Children who thrive in inclusion settings may benefit from 4H Enrichment. Contact the program director, Anna Goff, at 479-444-1755 to discuss your child’s possible fit with the program.
Have you had an exceptional enrichment program experience? Please share, share@childrenstherapyteam.com.