Lose the Training Wheels™
Learning to ride a bike is truly a milestone in a child’s life, one that brings joy and self-confidence. For some children, this achievement is made more difficult, if not impossible, because of their disabilities. Children with special needs have the desire to learn to ride, but many need specialized help.
Lose the Training Wheels (LTTW) is a national program that utilizes highly trained coaches and technicians, uniquely adaptive equipment, and a proven methodology. It is a week-long camp that teaches children with a variety of disabilities to ride a conventional two-wheel bike. Autism Foundation of the Carolinas (AFC) AFC hosts 2 camps per year in Charlotte.
Program Goals
The ultimate outcome of the camp is teaching a child to ride a bike that would not otherwise have learned; however, the benefits are so much more. In addition to significant motor/neurological development, there are additional benefits that stem from the ability to ride a two-wheeler:
- Enabling peer inclusion opportunities
- Building self-esteem
- Enhancing quality of family lifestyle
- Increasing activity and mobility
- Heightening cognitive stimulation
- Supporting better physical fitness
Once they learn to ride a bike, we give them opportunities to use their new skills along side their peers and with their families. AFC is partnering with other organizations to expand the program by offering an additional camp, buddy rides and a Bike-A-Thon. We aim to bring together the Charlotte community to raise awareness and understanding of these children/families and their needs.
About the Participants
Children who attend the camp have Autism, Aspergers, and other neurological disorders. Given the specialized equipment, the maximum number of children each camp can accommodate is 40. Each year the camps achieve maximum capacity and maintain a very long waiting list. Approximately 20% of the kids receive some form of financial assistance to attend the camp.
About the Volunteers
Each camp requires 80 to 100 volunteers as each child needs at least 2 volunteers at their side at all times in order to master the skill. These volunteers come from business partners, local high schools, churches and civic organizations. Involving our community with these children and families benefits the volunteer as much as the child. Many times, bonds are formed that last well beyond the camp week. The participation and support of businesses, schools and community volunteers play an important role in the LTTW program’s success. Great opportunity to do with family members or work group.