This Hands-on Spotting clinic gives coaches the opportunity to practice spotting athletes with disabilities and communication differences in a supportive environment. With participation from Special Olympics gymnasts, attendees will gain hands-on experience adapting spotting techniques, modifying progressions, and adjusting their coaching approach to match individual needs. The session will highlight safety considerations, alternative ways to cue movement, and strategies for supporting athletes who rely on visual, gestural, or nonverbal communication.
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress registration desk beginning Thursday at 5:30p.m.
Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands-on spotting activities.
This session dives into the “nitty gritty” of coaching neurodivergent learners in a gymnastics setting. Coaches will learn how to shift toward more effective visual, tactile, and structured teaching approaches that match how many neurodivergent athletes process information. We’ll focus on adapting class management and structure through a neurodivergent lens.
The course also provides concrete progressions and activities for gymnasts with praxis challenges, motor planning differences, body awareness deficits, or physical limitations that affect how they learn skills. Coaches will leave with ready-to-use tools, sample visual aids, and a clearer understanding of how to create a predictable, supportive environment where neurodiverse athletes can thrive.