In this article, the author describes the Sports, Habilitation, and Recreation Program (SHARP), a program of the Foundation for Blind Children in Phoenix, Arizona. The SHARP program aims to help children, who have visual impairments, achieve goals, develop independence, and make friends. One of the unique features of the SHARP program is that it…

The article describes a swimming program for children with disabilities. The program, staffed entirely by volunteers, aims to teach safety skills, offer such children exercise, increase self confidence, and encourage fun. Elementary swimming skills are taught with appropriate adaptations for various disabilities. (DB)

Research demonstrates that being well-fed is an important first step toward children's achievement. Nutrition programs are cost-effective interventions that can help children learn and grow. Local agencies can offer children meals and snacks through several federal nutrition programs (e.g., Summer Food Service Program, Child and Adult Care Food…

Outdoor adventure education programs generally have not met the demands of older adults. Ways to attract older adults to these programs and to tailor activities to allay their fears and maximize their enjoyment are discussed. (PP)

Parks and recreation professionals can help prevent juvenile delinquency by learning more about why young people feel disconnected with society and developing programs to help them develop strong ties and relationships with their communities. Social bonds can be developed through attachment, commitment, involvement, and positive beliefs. A sidebar…

The president and chief executive officer of the National Youth Sports Coaches Association (NYSCA), Fred Engh, discusses the status of the NYSCA today and how recreation professionals are trying to make sports fun for all children. The NYSCA's training and certification program for volunteer coaches is highlighted. (MT)

Recreation professionals who are attempting to facilitate the transition from the youth market to the adult face three barriers, termed dispositional, situational, and organization. These barriers are addressed and suggestions for meeting the needs of adults are made. (MT)

The use of computers in campus recreation is a trend that cannot be ignored. This paper reviews some uses of software for tabulating, controlling, and scheduling in college recreation departments. (MT)

A description is given of the organization and activities of a playgroup program for young children (ages one year through three years). (JD)

The effectiveness of using a computer to identify problems, allocate resources, and plan expansion in recreational programs is discussed. (JD)

This document presents guidelines for creating a master plan for community parks and recreation programs. The master plan is a written document used by community decision makers to provide a consistent 5 to 10 year parks and recreation plan. Chapters provide information on: (1) definition and general description of master plans; (2) goals and…

Standards are suggested for urban parks and recreation agencies in serving ethnic minorities with limited financial resources. Goals involve (1) recognizing the value of recreation as a social service; (2) seeking feedback from clients; (3) confronting the harsh realities of impoverished neighborhoods; (4) making facilities accessible; and (5)…

Changes in median age, family structure, and fitness attitudes are affecting city park usage. Many park and recreation people are on the fringes of fitness but need to provide more programs. Ways of providing fitness programs are discussed. (MT)

American children are in poor physical shape. Contribution of the National Fitness Coalition and how recreation professional can help youth get and stay fit are explored. (DF)

A well-organized outdoor program, with emphasis on skill-building, group dynamics, and self-esteem development, can be designed for exceptional persons. This article presents some concepts basic to an outdoor program and offers practical solutions to situations planners may see as dilemmas. (CJ)