The Benefits of Sport Activities for Children with Special Needs

Sports, especially fundamental and movement education based sports like gymnastics, provide tremendous benefits for children with special needs. Physical education programs can considerably improve the lifestyle of a disabled child. These programs may help control obesity, promote activeness, increase a child’s self-image and social skills, and increase motivation. The physical activity along with support, rewards, and interaction can, among other benefits, be very helpful to these children and their families.

S.N.A.P. Dragons

This special needs gymnastics program focuses on improving fine and gross motor skills, as  well as increasing flexibility and strength. SNAP Dragons also helps children build confidence and interact with other children while learning the sport of gymnastics.

The classes we offer are:

Autism Program teaches children to listen carefully to instructions and harnesses the need for constant motion into workable routines, where their fine and gross motor skills will be developed.

The High Tone program focuses on improving overall flexibility of the muscles, while teaching children the sport of gymnastics.

The Low Tone program focuses on improving overall strength of muscles, while teaching children the sport of gymnastics.

Classes

Level 1: $80/month     45 Minute class with parent

Level 2: $80/month    45 Minute class without parent, once a week

Level 3: $85/month    1 Hour class with parent, once a week

Level 4: $85/month    1 Hour class without parent, once a week

Program Director

Dr. Jacquie Gallello, program director,  has been making a difference in children’s lives for many years. Jacquie recently received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and Rutgers University, Camden. She is very excited to start her career as a Pediatric Physical Therapist, as well as becoming the program director for the All American Gymnastics S.N.A.P. Dragons. Jacquie has participated in gymnastics for 19 years, including teaching and coaching the sport for over 10 years. She was inspired to initiate this unique program by her passion for working with children with special needs, and her genuine love for the sport of gymnastics. With assistance from an excellent and supportive staff, Jacquie believes that this special needs gymnastics program will be a huge success.