Something interesting at North Augusta High School that not many know about is a class known as buddy gym. Cara Alan, a sophomore at NAHS, tells of this class, stating, “Buddy gym is a class where we play games and walk around the special needs kids.” Cassady Fortson, a junior at NAHS, also said, “Buddy gym is a form of gym class for special needs kids of all types and levels. It allows them to get the most physical activity that they can and lets them interact with students of all grade levels.”
There are different things that students can do in buddy gym. Alan stated that “We walk around the students in wheelchairs, play basketball with some of them, and play adaptive games with others.” Fortson said that for the rest of the year they “will be teaching the kids how to ride scooters and have races, play with a parachute, and continue to walk and play basketball.”
Buddy gym not only teaches special needs kids, but it also fosters support skills within the students that participate. Alan stated, “Buddy gym has taught me that you should always be thankful for the capabilities you were born with and you should never judge others for what they were born with. It’s also taught me to admire how far these kids have come with their disabilities.” Fortson agreed with how much it taught her stating, “This class starts my day off by never failing to put me in a good mood every day and has made me learn new ways to help people with different situations.”
Alan would recommend buddy gym to all, stating, “I would recommend Buddy gym to others because you get to meet new people and even just walking with them will make your day. You also can learn more about their disabilities and learn their stories.” Fortson also recommends the class, saying, “I would recommend this class to underclassmen because the kids are so loving and caring and truly bring the best out of you each day. It is the best way to start each day.”
As it has with everything, COVID has affected buddy gym. Alan stated, “Buddy gym has been affected by COVID in many ways, one being we have to wear a mask, so we never get to see the kids smiles or know if they are enjoying things. We also have to social distance during certain things which would be more fun without the distance.” They are also taking more precautions. Alan expounded upon this, stating “we are taking more precautions for COVID by wearing our mask all of the time and making sure to use hand sanitizer after playing with the kids or wheeling them around.” Fortson said, “Buddy gym was affected by COVID this year due to the precautions we have to take to keep everyone as safe as possible. We do our best to maintain social distancing and have to always keep our masks on.” Although it has been affected by COVID, the class continues to be beneficial for both the special needs participants and the students who volunteer with them.
Pictured: Cara Alan, Cassidy Fortson, and M
Photo Credit: Greer Worley
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