MK introduces Active Start program for children with intellectual disabilities

Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey (MK) has announced it will introduce Special Olympics Nova Scotia’s Active Start program into MK schools, starting with the Pictou Landing Elementary School. The program is designed for children with intellectual disabilities, providing “social, physical and cognitive interaction while engaging students in fundamental movement skills to increase physical literacy in the early grades.” Active Start was first piloted in NS in 2011, and has successfully expanded to other schools in the province. “Healthy minds, bodies, and spirits allow all children to grow in immeasurable ways … This program is the start of exciting opportunities for all children to think beyond all the limits and labels,” said MK Student Services Consultant Janean Marshall. Tom Fahie, Youth Development Coordinator for Special Olympics Nova Scotia, added that he was pleased the program could serve the Mi’kmaq population in their own communities. “I believe this program will become a template for other First Nation communities that wish to help bring fundamental movement skills to the children most affected by intellectual disabilities,” said Fahie. MK News