Adapted Recreation Programs for Customers with Disabilities

The Park Authority's award-winning Adapted Aquatics Program is an individualized swimming and water activity program for adults and children with physical and developmental disabilities. Program offerings include learn-to-swim classes, aquatic exercise classes, and training for Special Olympics and Paralympic Swim team competition.

Summer Adapted Aquatics Schedule

A small group foundational class provides opportunities for children ages 6-12 with disabilities to develop gymnastics skills in a social, structured, and supported environment. Participants develop physical strength, motor planning, and social skills through tumbling, parallel bars, vault, trampoline, balance beam and other gymnastics activities.

Series of paddling classes for teens and young adults with disabilities taught on the Potomac River at Riverbend Park in a small group setting. During the winter months’ classes are taught in the indoor pool at Spring Hill RECenter. Tandem and single kayaks available, beginners welcome!

This class designed for individuals with disabilities ages 8 and up and focuses on teaching basic yoga positions through engaging sensory activities. Students will learn breathing techniques for physical and mental relaxation and participate in exercises to improve strength, balance and flexibility. Yoga mats are provided.

A high-energy class designed for teens and young adults with developmental disabilities who can participate in a 4:1 ratio. Class focuses on teaching fitness and wellness skills in a fun and social environment. The class may include weight room exercises, team games, yoga, swimming, outdoor activities, and nutrition instruction.

This foundational/transitional class offers individual support to help students with disabilities develop basic skating skills. Classes offered for ages 6 and up at Mt. Vernon RECenter.

30 minute lessons at Lead by Example Fair Oaks martial arts studio. Students learn basic kicking, punching, blocking, and sparring skills and forms as they improve confidence and flexibility. Classes offered for ages 5 and up.

This class at Lake Fairfax Park teaches basic fishing skills with spinning and closed-faced reels while teaching safety, catch-and-release fishing, and protecting the environment. All equipment is provided.

Taught at Oak Marr RECenter for adults with primarily physical disabilities. Participate in Pilates exercises at seated and standing level, targeted to increase strength, balance, and flexibility.