Today, we began our 8 week (I think) training to Special Olympics for swimming. Why we did bowling first and swimming second when it is FREEZING outside? WHO KNOWS!!! Ethan was right at home again in the water. He immediately started kicking! I guess the rule is that the kids need to be able to propel themselves with a little help, so the independent kicking is in the right direction!
I took the camera, but since I was IN the pool, no pictures were taken. I know how you all were just dying to see me in my bathing suit. Yeah, I'm thinking not.
It is quite the chore to get our THREE kids prepared for the water and then to leave. Undress, swimming diaper on, swim trunks on- or in Ethan's case, wet suit on, life vests on, in water, swim for an hour, get out, dry off child, undress child, diaper back on, clothe child, dry hair under hand dryer, put AFO's back on...it's a workout!
Since the games are in March, Ethan will not qualify for a placement ribbon again since it will be before his 8th birthday- ok, did I just say 8th!?!?!?. He will only qualify for a participant ribbon. Oh well- it's good practice for next year!
When walking back to the locker room to change, Ethan was walking in only his swim diaper. He really has the skinniest legs! I really never see him walking without his pants on, so it was just something that both Mary and I noticed. I'll try and get a picture soon!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Special Olympics Swimming
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YAY ETHAN!!!! I want a video mom!!! If you're able, I'd really encourage you to find someone to give him lessons 1:1. (lots of community organizations do adaptive lessons.) The "training" for the meets really don't do much for them, other than work on the "race" part, if they're at that level. For the athletes who aren't to that point, it's really just a chance to have more time in the water, or to BE in the water if that's their only opportunity. (which is a good thing!) But if he's comfortable in the water, then actually learning to swim can be really freeing for a kid who's really challenged on land. (Angela is sooooo much more free in the water!! It's amazing! But at the same time, her left leg which is affected by her strokes barely kicks.) If he started to kick on his own, it's very possible he still has some instinctive movements intact, which are great to be able to take advantage of! Maybe one of the "older" parents can help you get connected with someone???
ReplyDeleteBy the way....DID YOU SAY 8TH BIRTHDAY???? NO!
ReplyDeleteGoo Ethan! Let me know when he is in the olympics and we'll come watch!
ReplyDeletebtw ... who are the 3 kids? LOL
That's so cool! I hope Kayla will be able to do Special Olympics when she's older.
ReplyDeleteNo way Ethan's going to be eight!!