Seeking Info on Local Challenger Sports Programs for Special Needs

I'm a current undergrad at USC who is hoping to pursue studies and a career working with children with autism. If I could find an after-school sports program in the LA area where I could volunteer, I would love to get involved. It seems like the issue is that these teams form but they eventually fall apart after the kids get older, and as far as I know, there aren't many consistent programs for children with autism and other special needs. If you know of anywhere where I could volunteer, I would love to help out! I believe that sports is a wonderful way for children to learn and practice social skills--often even more so than in the classroom. Post back if you have any ideas!
-R.

Hi J.,

How great that he has a sport that he likes. I highly recommend getting on TACA's yahoo group (Talk About Curing Autism). This is families of autism helping families of autism support group and if anyone will know of a way, they will.

Go to www.tacanow.org for lots and lots of information on everything you need to know about autism and sign onto the taca-usa yahoo group then pose your question there.

Hi I have a 7 year old with Autism as well he just started Challenger baseball in La habra. The first game is this Sunday & they are still looking for players. Let me know if your interested & I will look up the info. I think you could look for La Habra little league online & challenger is under that as well. My son is on the Dodgers & I would love another boy his age on the team!!!

Hello J.,
As a special ed. teacher who works with children on the Autism spectrum, it would be my recommendation for your son to continue to experience structure, not less. It is a challenge for our children as they get older and are asked to operate within the perameters of structured sports, however, separating them from the rest of the population gives them (the team) the message they don't have to accommodate kids with special needs. It sounds like your son has high functioning skills and needs a little extra coaching on the sidelines to remind him to remain focused. Remember, team sports at this age are about TEAM work, not winning, and if the spirit of the coach is win at all costs, find a more compassionate coach who is into nurturing children.
Good luck,
Wendy

I don't know about bball...but, I know CHOC has a karate program. Maybe if you contacted the challenger league they would know what else is out there.