In this podcast, we discuss the Fit Families program, an initiative focused on empowering parents of children with disabilities. Drs. Luis Columna and Laura Prieto (@LaAlma_Prieto) from the University of Wisconsin Madison share insights. Fit Families originated as a program for visually impaired children but expanded to include those with autism. Fit Families provides parents of children with disabilities expert-driven workshops that cover sensory-motor activities, communication, and aquatics. The program has positively impacted parents' awareness, advocacy skills, and children's self-confidence and motor skills. The panelists highlight community engagement, effective communication, and ongoing research as crucial to providing a lasting impact of these families and their physical activity (and overall quality of life). The program aims to expand, with a focus on reaching Latino communities. Barriers like funding and language are also discussed, emphasizing the need for tailored programs for diverse communities. See a rough transcript of the podcast episode here.
