Curling club program for autistic students returns

A unique program at the Liverpool Curling Club to help autistic school aged students learn to curl is coming back for a second year.

The sessions are taught in small groups, with coaches who have gone through training on how to teach skills to those on the autism spectrum. Last year proved so successful that some of the curlers went on to join regular junior curling teams.

Jennifer Conrad, coordinator for the learn to curl program, said as far as they are aware, they are First curling club in NS to have autism specific program.

Debbie Wamboldt, who’s son has autism, said can be tough for families with autistic children to enroll them into sports, both financially and because it can be difficult for those with autism to adapt to the competitive environment.

“It’s tough for autism families to get into sports. So when I saw the curling club was looking for some new members I though it would be a good opportunity for our kids to break into the sport,” she says.

Her son went through the program last year, and will take part again this year. There is no fee to participate, and the only equipment needed is a clean pair of shoes and a helmet.

The five week program starts this Saturday, and anyone interested in more information or enrolling can contacting Conrad at Liverpooljuniorcurling@live.com or Wamboldt at debandchris@bellaliant.net.