The Fairfax County Park Authority welcomes people of all abilities to enjoy the wonderful experiences offered throughout its parks, natural areas, Rec Centers, golf courses and other sites. The variety of experiences offered specifically for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities is expanding thanks to the Park Authority Access and Inclusion team.
In addition to a robust adapted aquatics program, the Park Authority is offering new and exciting inclusive, accessible programs. Explore the full suite of adapted programs by visiting Parktakes, but here are a few highlights to get you started:
Adapted Barre Techniques (adults)
Wednesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 28, 9-9:55 a.m., Oakmont Rec Center (formerly Oak Marr)
Move with more confidence and less effort in this fitness class meant to build balance, agility and strength. Ballet-inspired moves are combined with other elements of dance and creative movement. This class is designed for high-functioning adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Wednesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 28, 10-10:55 a.m., Oakmont Rec Center
Line dancing improves balance, coordination and agility, yet requires no partner or dance experience. Join this fun and exciting class that combines low-, moderate- and high-energy dance routines from different decades. This class is designed for high-functioning adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Thursdays, Jan. 11-March 21, 6:10-6:55 p.m., South Run Rec Center
Learn basic yoga positions to improve strength, balance and flexibility. Bring a mat and be introduced to breathing techniques for physical and mental relaxation. This class is designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
SPIRIT Club Adapted Fitness (ages 18+)
Thursdays, Jan. 11-Feb. 29, 4-4:55 p.m., Franconia Rec Center
Build functional skills aimed to improve capabilities throughout your day-to-day life. Gain improved balance, strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination, speed, agility and more. Exercises are taught with visual demonstrations and verbal cues to make sure instructions are clear and easy to follow.
Adapted Sports and Fitness (ages 13-adult)
Tuesdays, Jan. 9-March 19, 4-4:55 p.m. and 6:30-7:25 p.m., Providence Rec Center
Learn safe and proper sports skills while enjoying the benefits of fitness conditioning and teamwork through a variety of activities, such as beach volleyball, sports and games and outdoor activities. This class is designed for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities who can participate in a 4:1 ratio.
Adapted Tae Kwon Do (ages 5-10), (ages 10-17) and (ages 16-adult)
Ages 5-10: Saturdays, Jan. 6-Feb. 24, 3:30-4:15 p.m. Ages 10-17: Saturdays, Jan. 6-Feb. 24, 4:15-5 p.m. Ages 16-adult: Wednesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 28, 7:45-8:30 p.m. Lead by Example Fair Oaks
Learn basic kicking, punching, blocking and sparring skills and forms. Improve confidence and flexibility. This class is designed for students with disabilities on the high-functioning end of the autism spectrum.
Adapted Park Explorers (ages 6-11)
Saturday, Jan. 6, 10-11 a.m. and Saturday, Feb. 10, 10-11 a.m., Ellanor C. Lawrence Park
Explore different features of the park with hands-on science and nature activities tailored to young people with disabilities. See the best that parks have to offer. Parents must be accessible during the program but are not required to register.
Adapted Creative Movement (ages 18 months-4 years)
Tuesdays, Jan. 9-Feb. 27, 9-9:45 a.m., Spring Hill Rec Center
Adults are invited to share the joy of creative movement with their child. Spend quality time together while improving fitness levels and having fun. This class is designed for children with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Adult participation is required.
Adapted Walking Soccer (ages 6-12)
Saturdays, Jan. 13-March 2, 9-9:55 a.m. and noon-12:55 p.m., Little Run Elementary School
Increase cardiovascular health and develop balance, agility and coordination while learning developmental soccer skills. This class is designed for children with intellectual disabilities.
Learn more about these programs and FCPA’s inclusion work at the Recreation Services for Customers with Disabilities website.