Two innovative programs at UQ SPORT are helping Brisbane kids get moving, in and out of the pool.
Program coordinator Dr Chérie Harris said the MotorActive and UQCanSwim programs were encouraging children with disabilities and other additional needs build their confidence, master new skills and get out and have a go.
“We know how important motor skill development is in all children, but particularly so amongst children with additional needs,” Dr Harris said.
“The eight-week programs are tailored to each child with specific goals. The programs are designed for children between four and 12 years of age who have a physical or intellectual disability, learning challenges, coordination difficulties, behavioural issues or social and self-esteem issues.
“Our focus is on confidence and motivation, and developing and enhancing both fine and gross motor skills by involving children in physical activities specifically and individually designed for them.
“The UQCanSwim program is designed for children who lack confidence or have difficulty in the water.
“This one on one program is held in The University of Queensland undercover pool and works on goals such as improving fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, self-esteem and water confidence. But most importantly the focus is on fun.”
Dr Harris said the programs had already had some successes with previous program participants.
“We’ve had kids who start the UQCanSwim program standing terrified on the side of the pool who in a matter of weeks are duck diving and splashing around, confident and happy in the water,” she said.
“The Motor Active program has seen children master new skills like holding a bat or kicking a ball.
“Children can be referred to MotorActive by a wide range of professionals and also parents who are concerned about their child’s movement development. Upon referral a formal assessment by trained professionals is undertaken.
“MotorActive provides a unique opportunity to achieve long-term improvement of children’s physical, mental and social well-being giving them the competence and confidence to enjoy physical activity with their friends.
“Getting kids with additional needs to feel confident in their movement and want to try new activities is important in building their confidence but also in the long-term. We know children, of all abilities, who are active and enjoy recreational sport have a better chance of growing up to be fit and active adults.”
UQ SPORT offers more than 380 programs and attracts over 20,000 participants in social sport, recreation, adventure and college sport.
For more information, visit www.uqsport.uq.edu.au or to enrol a child in the program, contact the Inter-Professional Clinic on 07 3346 3241.
MEDIA: Meredith Irish, Terrace Communications (0407 658 267 or meredith@terracecomm.com.au) or Tegan Taylor at UQ Communications (07 3365 2659).
