Recreation for Everyone: Creating Inclusive Opportunities in Prince William County

At Prince William County Parks and Recreation, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to play, connect, and enjoy the benefits of recreation. Our adapted programs are designed to create welcoming, accessible experiences for people with disabilities, and provide opportunities to build confidence, develop new skills, form friendships, and have fun. Through thoughtful programming and a commitment to inclusion, we strive to ensure that every participant can find a place to belong and be an active part of our community. This fall we’ve got adapted dance classes, sports, holiday programs and more. Check out all the details below!

Dance Classes
Dance is for everyone! Our adapted dance class has two sessions this fall, starting in September and November. This class will help participants develop communication skills through movement. It will encourage self-expression, creativity and physical fitness. Class will start with easy dance moves that condition, and progress to fun steps in the center that will improve gross motor skills and coordination. Class finishes with a dance routine all can enjoy. Classes take place at Sharron Baucom Dale City Recreation Center.

Sports Programs
This fall we’ve got a fun sports lineup for individuals with disabilities. For those 18 years and over we’ve got adapted adult soccer, basketball and flag football. And for the younger ones (ages 7-15) they can check out our Soccer Skills & Drills Clinic. Some programs start in September. Get registered soon!

Holidays Programs
All the following programs will take place at Birchdale Recreation Center and are designed for children with disabilities ages 13 and older. 

Come join us on Wednesday, October 21 (6-7 pm) to cook up some spooky snacks. We’ll be creating Halloween-style dishes that will amaze your friends. This class is specifically designed for people with disabilities. Food allergies may be able to be accommodated. Learn more about this Spooky Snacks Program.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 18 (6-7 pm) for our Gather and Create program where participants ages 13 and over can experience a night filled with friendship and fun as they create wreaths in celebration of the season of giving. Each participant will leave with their own unique wreath. This class is specifically designed for people with disabilities.

On Wednesday, December 16 (6-7 pm), come join us for a sweet night of holiday fun as you decorate festive cookies! Kids (and adults) can explore creativity with colorful icing, sprinkles, and decorations, turning simple cookies into edible art. Warm up with a cozy cup of hot cocoa while creating holiday cookie art. Expect to get a little messy in the name of holiday cheer! Many food allergies can be accommodated; provided there is advance notice. 

Other Adapted Programs
If you’re interested in something different we’re offering a Club Connect social program designed for adults with disabilities (18 and over) seeking to connect, engage and build meaningful relationships. Each class features a different activity, giving participants the opportunity to try new things while building friendships and having fun. The first Club Connect session starts Thursday, September 3 through Thursday, October 15 (11 am - 12:30 pm); second session runs from October 29 through December 17 (no class on 11/26.)

If you want to give your child a fun, exciting camp experience from the comfort and convenience of your home we’re offering a Winter Break Camp in a Box that comes packed with fun activities, supplies, and instructions to keep your child entertained for a few hours each day. Boxes come with enough materials for two children ($26) or four children ($42) plus tax, and the instructions include physical and cognitive modifications for each activity. Boxes must be purchased online and will be available on December 18th. 

Be sure to check out our latest issue of Leisure magazine for all our programs and classes running from September to December.