Active Start program relaunches in valley Feb. 6
Children two to six years of age in the Cowichan Valley with intellectual disabilities have an opportunity to develop motor and sport skills through a program developed by Special Olympics B.C.
Cowichan is relaunching the Active Start program for a fourth season that provides positive movement experiences in a fun environment.
"Cowichan's a leader in this area,'' said Bobby Debrone, manager of community development on Vancouver Island for Special Olympics B.C.
"Nanaimo's the only other community on the island that has Active Start. It's a recent initiative under Special Olympics B.C.''
The initiative has grown from the understanding of the importance of sport and movement activities for children too young to participate in competitive sport programs. Active Start's success rests with the participation of caregivers and parents, as the program strives to foster lifelong skill development.
"From running, throwing, kicking, jumping, it's just pretty much working on physical literacy and an opportunity for parents to expand their support network,'' said Debrone.
There is no correlation between the program and the Paralympics, he stressed.
Active Start runs Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Duncan United Church, beginning Feb. 6. Contact Tom Stanko (250-748-7831 or tstanko@shaw.ca) to register.
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