Columbus Parks & Recreation Department Inclusive Programming
As a department, we believe in the value and importance of ensuring that individuals of all abilities have the opportunity to participate in the programs that we provide! We are always looking for new and exciting ways of providing specialized programming for individuals with disabilities, so check back as programs continue to be added. We are also always available to speak to you about how we can potentially modify our existing programs so that they meet the specific needs of your child or family member and their disability. Please contact us for more information about any of these programs or for information about out other parks department programs!
Adaptive Sports
Interested in volunteering with sports adaptive programs? Reach out to Seth Rice at srice@columbus.in.gov!
Basketball Buddies
Ages 5+ | Sundays | January 26 – February 23 (Will not meet February 9th) | 1-2pm (ages 5-9), 2-3pm (ages 10+) | St. Peter’s Lutheran School | $20
Please download the Remind code 8a7g94 for updates on Basketball Buddies.
Basketball Buddies is a 4 week program for kids/young adults with special needs who would like to learn fundamental basketball skills and make new friends! Participants are paired with buddies that will assist with skills such as dribbling, shooting, and passing. Players are encouraged to bring their own equipment (especially if modified) but we will provide for those that need it! Recommended for ages 5+. No class February 9.
Registration: December 16 – January 17, 5pm
Buddy Baseball
Ages 5+ | Sundays | April 27 – May 18 | 1-2:30pm | Clifty Park | $20
Buddy Baseball is a recreational league serving the Columbus community. Each player is paired with a buddy to
assist the player as needed on the field and in the dugout. The league fosters friendships and breaks down barriers giving children with disabilities and/or specific sensory requirements the opportunity to play an organized sport. Not only do the players experience the thrill of participating in a baseball game, they also experience team play and camaraderie.
Registration: March 17 – April 18, 5pm
Adaptive Gymnastics
Sensory Open Gym
Ages 2-14 | Fridays | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
During this time, our gym is specifically dedicated to providing a fun and safe space for children ages 2 to 14 who experience Autistic Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, or who have specific sensory needs. Our entire facility is set aside so that attendees can run, jump, swing, and climb on our equipment in a calm and comfortable setting. Siblings without disabilities or sensory requirements are more than welcome to also attend! Parent participation/supervision is required for Sensory Open gyms for children under the age of 10. Parents/Guardians should remain out in the gymnastics area with children at all times. These events are generously sponsored by Inclusive Options LLC so there is no fee!
| February 14 |
| March 14 |
| April 11 |
Gym Buddies
Ages 5-12 | Columbus Gymnastics Center
Special needs gymnastics class. These classes are designed to allow our athletes that have sensory and special needs time in the gym. Our instructors are trained to help athletes develop in many areas including muscle development, creative moments and social development. Parent/co-adult required. This class is 1:1 ratio.
Adaptive Ice
Skate Therapy | Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena
We offer one-on-one dedicated skating lessons for individuals with disabilities. For more information about this opportunity contact Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena, (812) 376-2686.
Sled Hockey Drop In
Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena | Call-In Registration (812-376-2686) | $5
Sled hockey is an adaptation of ice hockey which uses an open frame “sled” for players to sit on and move around the ice. Players use two smaller sticks instead of one long stick. One end of the stick is used as a pusher and the other end has a more traditional blade which is used to control, pass, and shoot the puck. Join us for this weekly drop-in, learning the basics of sled hockey. No experience is necessary and all equipment, including helmets and gloves will be provided. Call ahead to set up a session
Adaptive Recreation
All recreational activities are designed to be inclusive. Please call (812-376-2680) with any questions on accommodations.
Adaptive Aquatics
Adaptive Aquatics will return in Summer 2025. Keep an eye out for the April – October 2025 Fun Guide on April 4, 2025!
