Special Needs

 

 

The Special Needs Programs at the Summit Area YMCA are thoughtfully designed for children with diverse abilities like communication, social, behavioral and learning differences to thrive in a safe, friendly and supportive environment. Our mission is to encourage, help, build and strengthen healthy physical activity, confidence, social skills and more. From yoga to structured play dates, to swim arts and crafts, participants can enjoy a variety of activities that promote health, wellness, creative enrichment, socialization and more.


AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

 

Adaptive Yoga

Program Description:
Explore yoga poses and practices in a supportive environment. This adaptive yoga class...
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... offers modifications to make yoga accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability. Build strength, flexibility, and mindfulness while connecting with others in the community. Perfect for individuals with mobility challenges or those looking to refine their practice.

Dates:

Ages (7-12)
9/22/2023
Thurs. | 6:15 PM - 6:45 PM
REGISTER
Ages (13-21)
9/22/2023
Thurs. | 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM
REGISTER

Fridays in Motion (BH)

Program Description:
Experience a blend of swim and recreational activities aimed at fostering health, wellness, creative enrichment, socialization, and community for children with diverse abilities...
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... This program offers children with diverse abilities and their families an opportunity to enjoy various activities in the gym and in the pool. Siblings are also encouraged to join! To make it even more accessible, there's a special promo code "HAPPY" for those in need.

Dates:

10/6/2023
Fri. | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
REGISTER
12/1/2023
Fri. | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
REGISTER

Fridays in Motion (SU)

Program Description:
Join us at Summit YMCA for a special "Fridays in Motion" event designed for kids with diverse abilities...
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This weekly event is tailored for kids of all backgrounds and abilities. Engaging in fun activities, socializing, and embracing the spirit of the YMCA, children are encouraged to be themselves and enjoy a wonderful evening. Parents and guardians can rest easy knowing their children are in a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment.

Dates:

09/15/2023
Fri. | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
REGISTER
11/3/2023
Fri. | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
REGISTER
Location:
Summit YMCA

Teen Social Night for Teens with Disabilities

Program Description: Come make new friends and have some fun at our monthly Teen Social Night...
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... for Teens with Disabilities. The main activity will change each month from videogames, boardgames, sports, and art, with all activities geared towards increasing socialization skills and effective communication. The event is open for teens between 13-19 years old.

Dates:

9/22/2023
Fri. | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
REGISTER
10/20/2023
Fri. | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
REGISTER
11/17/2023
Fri. | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
REGISTER
12/15/2023
Fri. | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
REGISTER
Location:
Summit YMCA

SPECIAL EVENTS

Thanks to our generous local sponsors, we also host a variety of special events throughout the year, like our annual Extra Special Prom (see past events from 20232022, 2019, 2018), open swim days at our outdoor pools, pet therapy sessions, yoga nights and more. Interested in sponsoring an event, want to volunteer or get involved? Please contact us (below).


Read more about the development of Special Needs programs at the Summit Area YMCA

 


LOOKING FOR MORE?

The Summit Area YMCA builds stronger communities with programs and services that help all individuals learn, grow, and thrive in a welcoming, inclusive environment. In fact, the Y offers activities and programs for everyone -- every day! Find the program that’s right for you by browsing our Program Guide or All Programs page.


FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

The Summit Area YMCA works side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income and background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Each year, we serve more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services, through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners. Families with low or moderate household income or those who are experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to apply. Applicants must live or work in the Summit Area YMCA service area which includes Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling and Summit. Financial assistance can be used for membership, child care, summer camp, enrichment and sports programs where additional fees apply, such as soccer and swimming lessons.


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