Parenting a child with a disability can be very isolating, and the search for activities that cater to these children is often fruitless. But there are some fantastic local spots that welcome and serve children with special needs. Take a look at the list and give something a try.
Sport-Social
Founder Andrew Devitt combined his gift for skateboarding with his experience working with autistic children by teaching the basics in local skate parks. Fast-forward four years: Andrew and his young, talented crew now work with more than 200 kids with autism and other disabilities each week in the one-of-a-kind, 10,000-square-foot warehouse. The team at Sport-Social teaches social and behavioral skills through sports and the arts. All staff members have training in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), a clinical system of interventions to reduce problem behaviors and build skills. 7055 Windy St. Suite B, 702-485-5515, lvsportsocial.com/
Heather’s Dance Life
At the request of a parent who wanted her child and his friends to learn some group dances for his upcoming bar mitzvah, owner Heather Gordon started a class for pre-teens with special needs. The former Broadway and EFX dancer holds the weekly class for the children, ages 10-14 years, taking care to schedule the class at a time when the rest of the studio is empty. This helps the students feel comfortable. Parents are able to watch the entire class on a video monitor. 6135 S. Fort Apache Road, 702-534-6448, heathersdancelife.com/
Miracle League
“Every child deserves the chance to play baseball.” That’s the motto of Miracle League of Las Vegas, which serves children ages 3-18 who have cognitive and physical challenges. Every player’s name is announced as he or she emerges from the dugout. All players bat once per inning, everyone is safe on base and each player scores a run. Peers and volunteers serve as “buddies” for the players throughout the game. At a minimum, it is worth checking out the state-of-the art Miracle League Field. 101 S. Rancho Drive, 970-275-0465, miracleleaguelasvegas.com/
Challenger Little League
This organization also provides the opportunity for children 5-18 with physical and mental disabilities to enjoy baseball. Challenger Field hosts this “games only” (no practices) league. Myron Leavitt Family Park, St. Louis and Eastern avenues, 702-388-8899, challenger-little-league-of-southern-nevada.org/
Here a young girl can learn to move and dance from Miss Clark County 2009, who also has a degree in social work from UNLV. Miss Christina received ABA training specifically for this “creative movement” class to help her work with children with autism, though the class welcomes children with other special needs as well. The group is included in Step Up Academy’s recitals, and has even performed at a gala at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. 2558 Wigwam Parkway, 702-577-1832, stepupacademy.com/
School of Rock
City Lights Music Together
Your Music Together® class will be led by one of the staff of teachers, who have graced the stages of Las Vegas, Broadway and Japan in shows such as Mama Mia, Jubilee, Le Reve and KA. Music Together is a research-based music and movement experience for children up to 7 years old (and the grown-ups who love them). Owner Melanie Ron provides a friendly, familiar environment where all participants are accepted. Various locations, 702-838-4751 , citylightsmusictogether.com
Cross Fit Henderson
Run, use the medicine ball, do some squats and so much more. Coach Danny Wilkinson’s kid-friendly skills mesh perfectly with his kinesiology degree and previous experience working with children with disabilities. Held in the Cross Fit gym right along with the rest of the participants, classes for children with autism are held nearly every day. Danny’s big smile (and muscles) will immediately make you and your child feel comfortable and inspired. 2510 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway #100, 702-998-2355 (ask for Danny), crossfithenderson.com/
Hollywood Kids
Every Thursday night, boys and girls with special needs, ages 8 and up, enjoy 30 minutes of Glee singing followed by 30 minutes of Glee dance. The “Celebration Glee” final performances take place in a real theater, complete with wireless headsets, stage lighting, sound and costumes. Founder Margie Seastrand says it brings her tears of happiness. 10870 S. Eastern #101, 702-633-5500, hollywoodkidsacademy.com/
City of Las Vegas
Wheelchair basketball, swim, adaptive bike club, camping — these are among the long list of opportunities for children and adults with disabilities through the City of Las Vegas’ Adaptive Recreation Programs. Cindy Moyes, the program’s supervisor, explains that this is the “… longest running program locally for those with physical or developmental challenges.” Creative programming such as “Vegas Vision,” for those who are blind or visually impaired, includes tandem-bike riding, rock climbing and fishing. Low cost ($3 for a one-hour golf lesson!) plus staff members experienced at working with people with disabilities make this a win-win. Activity locations vary, 702-229-4902, lasvegasnevada.gov/information/5168.htm
Dream Therapies
The term “hippotherapy” means therapy with the help of a horse. It uses the horse’s movement as a treatment tool. At Dream Therapies, a staff of licensed occupational therapists, a speech pathologist and physical therapist bring expertise to this therapeutic riding. Horses are carefully selected and trained to work safely with the special needs population. (Note: There are a few restrictions, such as age or particular conditions that may prevent riding.) 366 E. Mesa Verde Lane, 702-227-4477, dreamtherapies.com/
eHoops
The “e” in eHoops stands for “exceptional” and “education.” eHoops’ mission is to allow special-needs kids to “participate in a safe, non-judgmental organized sporting environment.” Each team comprises half “typical” peers and half with special needs. Coaches receive special training to help them to be as effective as possible. While providing a wonderful time for those with disabilities and their families, eHoops is a unique and especially meaningful experience for the typical peers. e-hoopslv.com