There is no shortage of children’s classes in Westchester, but for parents of kids with sensory or physical limitations, finding the right program can be a challenge. Luckily there are activities in our county that cater to kids with special needs. Check out these four programs that go above and beyond to ensure that no child misses out on fun, fitness and making new friends.
Bounce It Out
BounceU is a children’s recreation space that features inflatables to jump on, slide down, and interact with. They are known for their birthday parties and open bounce sessions. They have recently launched a Bounce Therapy program in collaboration with Miriam Skydell & Associates, an occupational therapy center. The program features a small child-to-teacher ratio and aids children in the development of social and physical skills. Kids have fun while gaining independence and physical strength. A support group for parents is offered during the children’s session. The class meets for an hour once weekly and is grouped by age.
BounceU
150 Clearbook Road, Elmsford
914-874-5200
Make a Splash
Aquabilities with Jennifer is a renowned swim program with three locations on the border of Westchester County. Depending on their ability and swim level, kids can participate in group swim classes, or, for those who need individualized care, private lessons with one or two instructors who understand spectrum learning and will help to instill the tenets of water safety and swim skills into children of all ages. Aquabilities says swim therapy can bring great benefit to kids due to its freedom of movement, breathing techniques, and therapeutic exercises that take place during instruction. Classes are approximately 30 minutes.
Aquabilities with Jennifer
20 Barrett Hill Road, Mahopac
5901 Palisade Ave. and 3333 Henry Hudson Pkway, Bronx
347-541-7665
Take a Swing
Miracle League of Westchester is an inclusive baseball league that welcomes children of all physical and developmental abilities. Wheelchairs and medical equipment are welcome. Kids not only play ball, but they learn to become a team member and compete in a league sport. Games take place in Miracle Field, a rubberized cushioned field in Hartsdale that allows for safe play. With more than ten seasons of baseball, the league has blossomed to include more than 700 children and adults. Each team member gets matched with a volunteer buddy to make sure they have fun and stay safe during the games.
Miracle League of Westchester
287 Ridge Road, Hartsdale
914-522-1547
mirac
Create Music and Art
Heartsong is a creative arts therapy program that specializes in music and arts therapy for kids with special needs. Based in White Plains, this center allows children to go beyond the barriers of disabilities through music to stimulate the senses, evoke physiological response, and help those without language to communicate. Kids can also take art therapy, a class that aids in the advancement of motor and social skills. Through artistic expression, children increase their self-awareness, confidence, and emotional development. These 45-minute sessions offer a way for kids to have fun, socialize, and learn in a nurturing environment at their own pace.
Heartsong
277 Martine Ave., White Plains
914-358-5613
– Andrea Worthington owns BabyG
