THE EDITOR IN CHIEF'S DESK
FAYE SIMON
Fair Play
Aside from the physical benefits, engaging in adaptive sports and inclusive fitness activities helps build interpersonal skills.
It's important for people with special needs to remain active and engaged during the summer months, especially if they are without education or support services. Inclusive fitness programs and adaptive sports are often a great way to ensure getting exercise and social interactions.
"From a strictly health standpoint, people with disabilities are more likely to be obese and suffer from preventable comorbid conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease,"
Lauren Agoratus notes in her article "Sports Should Be Inclusive Too!" She provides a helpful list of organizations that offer programs and resources for families that would like to participate.
Aside from the physical benefits, engaging in these programs helps build interpersonal skills. "We find that children and adults benefit from group-oriented social-recreation programs that encourage interpersonal engagement with peers," writes Jennifer Montanez, M.S. in her article.
A highlight of this month's Adaptive Sports and Recreation Issue is my interview with Amy Bockerstette and her father, Joe. Amy became a sensation when playing alongside pro golfer Gary Woodland, during a practice round at the 2019 WM Phoenix Open. Before each shot, she quietly but confidently declared "I got this." That special moment led to Amy and her family's founding of the I GOT THIS Foundation and her role as an advocate for inclusive sports.
inclusive sports. We also offer a piece by first time contributor Gavin Morrobel, "Speaking Up," about finding his voice and becoming an advocate for himself and his community. A special Inclusive Travel section includes an article from Autism Speaks' Marta Chmielowic on tips for traveling with an autistic child.
I always love feedback on the content in each issue. Feel free to contact me at epmagazinevp@gmail.com or fsimon@epmagazine.com. All of your comments, suggestions, and Amy became a sensation playing alongside pro golfer Gary Woodland. Before each shot, she declared "I got this." Faye Simon questions about EP Magazine are welcome. We appreciate your feedback, which helps us maintain the relevance of our magazine. a sensation playing alongside pro golfer Gary Woodland. Before each shot, she declared "I got this." Faye Simon questions about EP Magazine are welcome. We appreciate your feedback, which helps us maintain the relevance of our magazine.
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THE EDITOR IN CHIEF'S DESK
Faye Simon is a certified pre-K—8 teacher with a wide range of educational experience. She has worked in deaf/blind and infant stimulation programs, taught K—2 in public schools, and was a Head Teacher and Parent Coordinator for Head Start. She is Founder and President of the volunteer-run IES Brain Research Foundation. As EP's Editor In Chief, Faye sources and edits articles, creates partnerships with businesses and not-forprofit organizations, and develops relationships with EP's writers, corporate partners, readers and staff. Faye has been interviewed about EP Magazine and IES Brain Research Foundation multiple times including on: Mrs. D's Corner, SFN Dad to Dad Podcast, Oscar Mike Radio, Wreaths Across America Radio, Shana Siegel's Aging Answers, and Able Today Show.
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