Thursday 1 January 2009

I can... get into shape!

New Year’s Resolution? Or maybe just a new start for a new year? In January, our thoughts often turn to getting back to the gym or looking for healthier ways to live our lives. Here are some suggestions for helping youngsters who use alternative and augmentative communication to achieve a healthly lifestyle.


Here are some vocabulary suggestions for the gym:

Can we schedule some workouts?
Can you set up the machine for me please?
I want to change up my routine
Are we done yet?
Please show me how this machine works.
Let’s do something different.
No more!
Can you help me stretch further?
That felt really good.
How many more reps?
Let’s check my workout card.
I’m ready to add more weight.

TVCC Adapted Fitness Centre

Did you know there is now a fitness centre available at TVCC?  Any TVCC client who is over the age of 10 is eligible to undergo a fitness assessment.  A personalized fitness program will be developed and then the client is free to bring a workout buddy and drop in to use the adapted equipment (e.g. treadmill, stepper, weight machine). Help can also be provided to assist clients in the transition from working out at TVCC to working out in the community (e.g. at the Y, Goodlife, at high school).

The hours of operation are Mon-Thurs from 4pm to 7pm, Sat 10am-noon.  A TVCC staff member will be supervising the room during these hours.  

So, what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone or open your e-mail and get in touch to set up an appointment. For general inquiries or new assessments, please contact: Kim Simpson 519-685-8700 ext. 53783, or Liz Lusk ext. 53399.  

Kim.Simpson@tvcc.on.ca This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Liz.Lusk@tvcc.on.ca

No-Tech Ideas

·         Make a communication display that can be used in the school or community gym by students who need symbols or written words to express themselves.  An example is attached with this newsletter.

 

High Tech Ideas

·         Wii Fit and Wii Sports: If you were lucky enough to receive a Wii for Christmas, you’ll know just how much fun it is to get fit the Wii way. Some classrooms are getting Wii systems to allow students with disabilities the chance to try out a variety of sports.


Fun Stuff!

Swimming, basketball, tennis, sledge hockey… What do you want to try first? There are lots of sports-related

Opportunities to Participate currently advertised. Come out and try something new! Catch all the details in the attached brochure or follow the links on the TVCC website: http://www.tvcc.on.ca/

Resources: Check out the following websites for great ideas…

Kids - take the Get IN2IT ™ challenge with Goodlife: a challenge to be active, eat healthy and feel great! http://www.goodlifekids.com/ N2IT™ Challenge
Serious about sports? Check out information from the Ontario Cerebral Palsy Sports Association
Canada’s Physical Activity Guide for Youth http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/pau-uap/paguide/child_youth/pdf/guide_y_e.pdf