Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84When it comes to staying physically active, special needs kids can be just like the rest of us. Some days, they just don’t want to work out. But kids with mental or physical disabilities also face unique challenges, such as behavioral difficulties, cognitive issues and mobility limitations. That’s why it’s so important to find a special needs trainer or fitness program to accommodate these unique challenges. That’s what Kelly Waterman of Highland Park did for her daughter Sara, who earned the nickname “Happy” because of her cheerful personality. “It’s a challenge to find facilities that can work with these special kids,” explains Kelly. “They’ve got to find the right staff who understand how to challenge, encourage and engage a child with special needs, regardless of disability. Plus, the staff needs to have that special talent of incorporating fun into fitness and having a passion to work with special needs kids.” Kelly turned to Leslie Pattinson, who teaches special education at Happy’s former middle school in Plano. Leslie, who earned certifications in physical training, nutrition, First Aid, and CPR from the International Sports Sciences Association, also offers one-on-one fitness training to special needs kids. “Because Happy was having health issues, I helped Kelly research nutrition plans and started training with Happy three times a week,” says Leslie. “The results were amazing! Happy lost over 30 pounds!” A proper nutrition plan and regular physical activity really EMBRACE! by Lisa A. Beach Pictured here, Sara“Happy”Waterman running the 4 X 4 baton race at the Special Olympics regional track meet. Get Moving! PHYSICAL FITNESS OPTIONS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS