Project Happy-Gramercy

disability sports & recreation manhattan

Project Happy’s aim to promote positive well being in those with a Disability through Sports and Recreation in Manhattan. The program is held on Saturdays at the Brookdale Campus of Hunter College 425 East 25th Street about midway down from 1st Avenue.

Now there is one small catch. You need to be referred to Project Happy by a Health Professional. For instance, a Family Doctor, physician’s assistant,  school nurse, psychologist, psychiatrist, or community health practitioner all would be examples of Health Professionals. Once you get your referral, fill out the application, and consent forms you’ll be able to participate in the program. However, they might be full. In that case, you’ll be added to the waitlist for the next available spot. No Biggie. You’ll be ready to waltz right in because you’ll have already submitted all the paperwork.

Can we just take a moment to talk about how cool it will be to be on a college campus? Not only that, Hunter College actually has an Office of Access Ability. Their primary mission at the school to ensure that all programs and activities are accessible for all of you.

Hunter deserves a round of applause for getting an inclusive college experience right! We appreciate your hard work.

Find out more about how Project Happy helps those with a disability have some Manhattan fun through sports & recreation down below.

http://www.project-happy.org/

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Hey, have you the Disability Ally NYC calendar page yet? You can actually print it out so you know what’s going on throughout the year. Check it out. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/calendar/

West Side Little League-Upper West Side

special needs baseball manhattan

I am thrilled to be able to tell you that Manhattan has an Adaptive Disability Baseball Program. Not only does West Side Little League have a co-ed division called The Challengers but also it’s for children with disabilities ages 5 and up. Rather than have you wonder what “co-ed” means, let me explain. That means boys and girls are on the same team. Furthermore, when they say ages 5 and Up-that is to say even Special Needs Adults can play ball too. Of course, the division coaches divide players up by ages and abilities so you’ll make some friends on your team with people your own age.

Typically The Challengers’ Schedule begins in the Spring and practice/games are on Sunday afternoons. Younger kids at 77th and Riverside Drive while older players go to 103rd and Riverside Drive. Sounds to me like a nice way to wrap up the weekend. Don’t you think?

Instead of worrying if you are skilled enough to play baseball, just bring a great attitude and be ready to try. I guarantee there will be a coach there to help bring out the best ballplayer in YOU! Score a Home Run down below.

http://westsidebaseball.org/index.php

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I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Have you signed up for the Disability Ally NYC Newsletter? It would mean the world to me if you would! https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/newsletter/

KEEN-(Kids Enjoy Exercise Now)-NYC-Midtown

Kids with Disabilities Exercise

Kids and Young Adults with Physical and Developmental Disabilities can Exercise with KEEN. What’s KEEN, you say? KEEN stands for Kids Enjoy Exercise Now. This recreational program aims to empower youth with disabilities by providing free, non-competitive one-to-one programs of exercise, fitness, and fun, led by volunteer coaches.

Since 1992, KEEN has successfully encouraged thousands of kids and young adults with disabilities to exercise. What began in Washington D.C has now spread across the United States to areas such as San Francisco, Phoenix, and Chicago. How lucky are we to have a branch here in NYC?

At the heart of the KEEN’s mission is a beautiful vision of acceptance. “Imagine a World where Every Child finds Friendship and Self Esteem” -Keen NYC. In fact, an Inclusion philosophy serves as the foundation of the program. To explain further, EVERYONE has an equal opportunity to participate regardless of their ability. I can’t speak for you but once I read that I immediately became a fan. I have been witness to plenty of situations where children with special needs weren’t included in gym class or even engaged with because of their disability. So programs like these make me immensely happy.

Please keep in mind that a short athlete enrollment form must be completed before you join. You and your family/caregiver must complete orientation before registering for your first session. The schedule is available online and it’s packed -Better get to steppin!

https://www.keennewyork.org/

Did you know that Amazon is now offering an all-kids subscription that you can use across all of your devices? It is very inexpensive too. What’s more, you can choose what age you want-which I absolutely love. Age 3-5, 6-8, or 9-12. How’s that? Content curated just for you! click my link and get a free trial and see what you think! .https://amzn.to/3ROfMx1

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Junior Knicks-Chelsea

The Junior Knicks is an NBA New York Knicks Inclusive Basketball Program that is accessible to kids ages 6 to 16. One part of the site says age 14 but something tells me they won’t mind including a few of you 15 and 16-year-olds if you really love the game. During this amazing program, you’ll learn skills such as how to dribble, pass, and shoot the ball. Additionally, you’ll meet some Professional Knicks Players, as well as some known Legends. Furthermore, you’ll get to go to some live games, and even have the opportunity to play on the court in Madison Square Garden. I can’t wait to see some pics. You better tag SpecialNeedsNYC2020 when you show people the fun you’re having out there.

By all means, sign up soon because they normally have around 10,000 participants. Professional Coaches and training staff typically divide the kids by age groups. What an exciting way to meet new people who share your love of basketball! Lastly, the Junior Knicks Inclusive Summer Basketball Program Typically Tips Off in July. Grab your Air Jordans and sign up today. I love the sound of the net! Swoosh!

https://www.nba.com/knicks/junior

Hey, have you printed out our Calendar yet so you know what’s happening around Manhattan? Like Nike says-Just do it. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/calendar/

FLY Center-Upper West Side

young adult social group manhattan

FLY Center has an awesome Young Adult Social Group that features cooking lessons, arts and crafts, community outings, games, and recreational activities. Oh, and how I could I forget, they do Mad Science Projects too!

In other words, you’ll have the time of your life while forming some true and meaningful friendships. Another key point is that the FLY Center likes to keep groups small. No more than 8 people to a session. In order to ensure everything goes according to plan, each gathering is lead by a highly trained professional. Additionally, modifications and supports can be individualized to your specific needs.

Now because the program wants to make sure similar peers are grouped together FLY does a meet and greet with you and your parent/caregiver beforehand. They want to get to know you before you attend and see what exactly your goals are for participation. In the event that you are 14 and older, the Young Adult Social Group is the perfect fit for you. Otherwise, the Raven or Owl group would be more suitable. It should also be noted that children as little as 3 years old are welcome to check out FLY’s Social programming.

So many possibilities so little time. Add FLY Center to your list of growing opportunities. You know me. I’ve got all the info right down below.

https://flycenternyc.com/social-skills-groups/

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Baby Fingers Learning Center- On the Upper West Side Teaches ASL and then Some!

Special Needs Film-Making class
man holding clapper board
Photo by Martin Lopez on Pexels.com

Ever taken a filmmaking Class here in Manhattan? No? Well, have I got some exciting news for You. Yes, It’s True Baby Fingers Learning Center offers one. I might be wrong but I haven’t heard of any of the other programs that teach filmmaking to those with disabilities. Definitely not here in NYC anyway. So I am already loving that Baby Fingers took the plunge to be the first. Not only that, but you can also learn how to change your accent to become a different character. Furthermore, you can learn how to audition for a part, and create your very own play.

At the present time, Baby Fingers teaches classes about essential oils such as Lavender, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus as well. Typically this class is for those 18 and up. When we talk about using oils we have to mention Yoga. You can schedule a group of friends to do the stretches with you and feel the soothing benefits together. However, if you rather take a private session they will be happy to accommodate you. This goes for all of the Baby Fingers Lessons.
persons hand doing peace sign
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com

Obviously, with all this tween and teen programming you might be wondering how the name Baby Fingers fits the name of the center. Actually, I have saved the best for last. Baby Fingers teaches ASL-American Sign Language to boot. All ages and abilities are able to participate in learning to sing along in sign language. Signing skills can open you up to a whole new world of possibilities and friendships.

Above all, trained professionals are there to help students with disabilities everything from starting an intro to filmmaking class to how to sign a top hip hop song. Baby Fingers has all its upcoming courses on its website below. Check it out.  You can always call them if that’s easier. 212-874-5978 email is info@mybabyfingers.com

https://mybabyfingers.com/calendar/action~month/exact_date~1593576000/request_format~html/

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Kids Tennis Co.- Upper West Side

Special Needs Tennis Manhattan

Have you ever been to the US OPEN- the tennis tournament we have in Queens? I have and I absolutely loved it! If you ever wanted to play I know an ideal place for you to take lessons. The Kids Tennis Co. provides Special Needs Tennis Instruction for players in Manhattan.

What makes them a great place to begin your Tennis journey is the fact that they have a specialized curriculum, low student-teacher ratio and to top it off, adaptive equipment. Coupled with highly qualified instructors, you’ll be ready to serve and make a point in no time.

In addition to all of this, Kids Tennis Co. will even help you plan your Birthday Celebration or any other type of Event. The Staff knows how AMAZING you are, as do I so let’s get to it!

Tennis matches are usually action-packed and so entertaining to watch. The idea of playing sounds very exciting. Pair that with having a place with the proper training to teach you skills of the game, you may just become the next Rafael Nadal. Not sure who he is? He won the US OPEN tournament last year. I happen to have a bit of a crush on him, but I digress. More about that another time. Back to the business at hand.

Overall Kids Tennis Company’s Program has glowing reviews. Furthermore, they have the expertise needed to teach our Special Needs Manhattan Community the game of Tennis. Match Point. Learn more down below.

https://kidstennisco.com/special-needs

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Achilles International- NYC

disability running group manhattan

Did you know that the more you Run, the more Tacos you can eat? It’s true. The more laps you complete the bigger dollop of sour cream! Don’t believe me? Join Achilles International NYC/Manhattan, a Running/Walking Group for people who have a Disability.

Since 1983 Achilles has been gathering people with disabilities together to train and encourage each other while pushing themselves a little harder. Consequently, the program is divided into two parts. First, you have the Achilles Adult division suitable for those 18 and up. Including training options five days a week in different areas of the city. You’ll be able to see locations once you click the link.

Second, is Achilles Kids for those Ages 2- 18. Generally speaking, kids’ training happens once or twice a week in Central Park or the JCC-Upper West Side. So here’s the thing, you don’t need to be a great runner to participate. You can go at your own pace. Some kids only walk and that’s perfectly okay. Games are played, you’re moving and friendships are formed with kids and volunteers. As a result, you feel good about yourself and gain confidence in your accomplishments no matter the size. Furthermore, Achilles Kids participates in several NYC races throughout the year. I can picture you with your medal now. Looking so Proud!

In the long RUN-(ha, get it), you’ll be so glad you got involved with a Running Group specifically for those with a Disability here in Manhattan. Just Put on Your Running Shoes and Join Achilles International!

https://www.achillesinternational.org/achilles-kids

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The Meeting House-Upper West Side

social after school program

The Meeting House is an All-Inclusive Social After School Program that teaches a mix of fellowship skills. For example, experiences model mutual respect, unconditional acceptance, and active group participation. Given that social-emotional skills play an important role as you grow older, the younger you make connections the better. Hence, the program serves students from ages 4 – 13 years old.

Alongside professionals and peer mentors, a diverse community of special needs, mainstream, and under-served co-ed kids engage in meaningful activities. For instance, afterschool enrichment may include science experiments, cooking, games, yoga, chorus, as well as arts and crafts. With all these activities The Meeting House keeps it fresh and new. You are definitely not just going there to do homework. That’s for sure! I almost forgot to mention, there are also sports, and improv sessions to boot!

Basically, while you’re enjoying the camaraderie you’ll begin to feel empowered, confident, compassionate, and more understanding of your own emotions. Thus laying the groundwork for you to be a thriving successful teen and adult in the future. A positive supportive environment is just the place to learn to flex your social muscles. As a result, you’ll form new relationships with people that are different from your typical school mates. You see enough of them during the day. Why not branch out? The Meeting House Social After School Program is the place to grow emotionally in ways you may have never thought possible. Learn more down below.

http://www.themeetinghouseafterschool.org/

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