For children with extra needs, there can be many barriers to participating in community programs. The DGS RISE Adaptive program chooses to ensure the program and our facility is built to best work for the child, not the other way around. When a child enters the adaptive program, they are welcomed into the group, and staff take the time to get to know them, their learning style, and their individual goals

Our adaptive program currently runs during daytime hours, when the gym has the most open space and a quieter environment. This allows for flexibility within the program, as well as supports many of the sensory needs of the participants. Through this program, participants are challenged to try new physical skills and build their own physical literacy, but they also learn to take turns, communicate needs, interact and socialize with peers, increase problem solving skills and frustration tolerance, and build resilience and confidence, which leaves participants with a great sense of achievement.