New program arrives for special-needs children Published June 19, 2008 By By Airman 1st Class Veronica McMahon 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Tyndall Youth Center personnel are introducing a new Start Smart program specifically designed for disabled and special needs children ages three to seven. The Exceptional Start Smart Program will begin 5 p.m. July 9, at the Tyndall Youth Center. The program, based on the traditional Start Smart class, takes a step-by-step approach to build confidence and self esteem while teaching fundamentals of each sporting activity so children have a smoother transition to organized sports. "In my first Start Smart class, I had a child with special needs who inspired me to create this class," said Jessica Leonard, a Start Smart instructor and creator of the new program. "This will be a class where special needs kids can be celebrated, have fun and learn sports," " The program, entailing one hour a week for four weeks, will be set up so parents and children rotate through fundamental work stations every 10 minutes, said Mrs. Leonard. "It is important for everyone to have fitness (in their lives)," said Mrs. Leonard, who hopes for a good turn out. The program will be open to children with any disability. "We have never done anything pertaining to special needs here before," said Andy Wallace, Youth Sports and Fitness director, "and we do have special-need kids who play. All the equipment is soft and safe which takes the fear factor out of the kids learning a new sport." The Exceptional Start Smart program offers other benefits by helping children develop social skills and helping parents set up support systems with other parents. "We want all the kids to have fun and participate," said Mr. Wallace. "We want them to keep coming back by giving them a positive experience." Parents interested in enrolling their children, should contact the Tyndall Youth Center at 283-4326 before July 7.