Are there any sports or activities for a three old with a developmental disability in St Louis, MO?

Question

Most sports seem to be for 5 years old or higher.

Answer 1

That's because most sports entail competition and a 3 year old isn't ready for competition. A three year old should be able to participate in gymnastics classes, swimming classes, dance classes alongside kids without disabilities. There could be therapeutic recreation opportunities that might include horseback riding or bike riding.

Check out the organizations listed here: http://www.geocities.com/tragsl/index.html

also ask

Special Olympics
2510 S Brentwood Blvd, Saint Louis - [phone]

Answer 2

Forgive me for sounding anti-sports, but does your 3 year old need or want to be in some sports activity? If a doctor has ordered it, that is a good reason. But I just wonder about the fascination surround sports.

Both of my sons hated sports because they did not care for, as they put it: "...that insane behavior of revolving your life around sports." We live in Wisconsin where the Packers are "worshiped." Many people attend services at the Lambeau Field "Cathedral" in addition to placing various shrines around and in their homes to glorify Bret Favre. I am unsure if they pray to Bret, but I wouldn't be surprised.

My first was very non-competitive. He is now a PhD candidate in analytical chemistry at the Univ. of Minn-Twin Cities. Just published his first article in THE main journal for analytical chemists.

My second has cerebral palsy as a result of a very sloppy delivery. We both almost died. The doctors told us his mental abilities would probably "plateau out." He is now have the time of his life working as an IT Networking Specialist for a large law firm. He graduated from school with honors. He could, if he wanted to, bring the entire firm down by messing with the main computer system. Fortunately, he's not the type to do that. It's kind of a joke between us as to how much power he has over that law firm.

I am exceedingly proud of both of them, as you can see. Sports just seemed to be idiotic to the boys.

It IS possible that your 3 year old has as yet unknown talents in other areas. Just a thought....

Answer 3

Most sports do not start until a child is around the age of seven due to the muscle developement
However concerning his disability try swimming children of any age can learn to swim Try a local YMCA they will work with your child and teach them to swim and as the years pass they may become very good at it and feel good about it themselves.
Good Luck