Jump into an early introduction of Special Olympics through this fun sport and play program, where children stay active and establish healthy habits for the future—setting the stage for a life of physical activity, friendship, and learning.
Increase in motor skills after children participating in an 8-week Young Athletes Program.
Of parents felt that participation in Special Olympics has raised their expectation of their children.
Of athletes’ siblings felt that participation in Special Olympics brought their family closer together.
Typically, between ages 2-7 years old, we offer an inclusive sport & play program where children learn basic sport and locomotor movements, such as running, jumping, balancing, kicking, and throwing. The children learn how to play with others, to share, take turns, and follow directions, which will help them in family, community, and school activities.
As children grow physically and emotionally, usually between ages 6-12 years old, they enter a program designed for children who become comfortable with the Young Athletes program. This level focuses on individual sport skill development and early game play concepts.
This is a bridge program for children who may not be ready for competitive Special Olympics team sports but are interested in more structured sport activities like track & field, soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and flag football.
A Roxbury Latin student partnered with Special Olympics MA to host an inclusive tennis clinic, breaking barriers and creating access. Athletes gained confidence, volunteers built connections, and everyone left inspired.
Special Olympics Massachusetts has announced that it was awarded a $100,000 grant by the Yawkey Foundation to support the organization’sInclusive Sports Programs across Massachusetts.
At Bowl for a Goal, Revs fans celebrated Unified All-Stars Liam Wise & Remy St. Germain, fresh from representing New England at MLS All-Star Week—proving local athletes can shine on the national stage.
Couldn’t find what you were looking for? write to us at Ops@SpecialOlympicsMA.org
Special Olympics Young Athletes is an early childhood play program for children with and without intellectual disabilities, ages 2 to 7 years old. Young Athletes offers families, teachers, caregivers and people from the community the chance to share the joy of sports with all children.
As with all Special Olympics programming, there is never a cost for athletes to participate. Young Athletes is no different. Through incredible donor support and critical financial partnerships, we are proud to be able to provide this program free of cost.
Special Olympics Programs are designed for athletes with intellectual disabilities and as such, we adapt to meet the needs of each person. As we are able and with a focus on the safety of all participants, we will also make accommodations and adaptations for individuals who also have a physical disability.
Most Young Athletes programs run weekly for eight weeks. Please check the dates of the specific location in your area on the Athlete Registration page
Absolutely! Young Athletes is designed to be inclusive of anyone who wants to build play into their day. Special Olympics wants children to get used to the idea that a more inclusive community is a better community, when better to start than with our youngest athletes?