Special Needs Programs

ERJCC offers a varied selection of activities and services designed to meet the social and recreational needs of people with special needs.  These groups offer them opportunities to enhance their self-esteem and improve social skills while developing meaningful relationships. Whenever possible we work to integrate participants into ongoing classes and events.

If you are physically impaired and need handicap access to the gym and recreational area, please notify the Membership Office in advance at 713-729-3200 ext. 3220 or email membership@erjcchouston.org.
 

Adapted Aquatic - Youth/Teens/Adults
These classes are designed for individuals with special needs who require individualized swim instruction and/or adaptive equipment to be successful in the water. Lessons are customized for each student to teach water safety, functional and recreational swimming skills with the ultimate goal of progressing through the American Red Cross Learn To Swim Levels. Instructor is specifically trained and experienced in working with individuals with special needs.

Click here for class schedule

For more information, please contact Tonya Hall at thall@erjcchouston.org or 713-729-3200 ext. 3290.

 
 Gymnastics Super Stars
Special Needs Class 3 - 13 yrs.
Parent and child explore a fun world together in the gym and enjoy an introduction to physical play promoting coordination, balance and strength. Full state-of-the-art gymnastics facility and equipment is utilized. Fantastic way to improve motor skills and even cognitive awareness! Excellent way for children with special needs to join the fun and learn to develop and interact with challenging activities and friends. Non-stop action from one activity to another. Open to the public! Shadow could be required for class participation. Max 10. Inst: Professional Staff

Click here for class schedule

For more information, please contact Leslie Holmes at lholmes@erjcchouston.org or 713-729-3200 ext. 3250.
 

TOPSoccer
Sundays • 5:00 - 5:45 p.m.

TOPSoccer is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with disabilities, organized by youth soccer association volunteers. The overall program is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girl, ages 4-19, who has a mental or physical disability. 

The program is open to children with special needs who require specific modifications on the game. Participation helps develop general motor skills, soccer-specific skills, social & cognitive skills, as well as teamwork, in a fun and relaxed environment. Each child receive a soccer ball to motivate participation at practices and at home. Trophies will be handed-out at the end of each session. There is a minimum of 4 and maximum of 10 children per class, with at least two coaches per group.

Soccer Team Created for Special Needs Kids 
KRIV Fox 26

Click here for class schedule. For more information or to register, please call 713-729-3200 ext. 3230.  
 

Nite Owls
Wednesdays • 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
The Nite Owls is an amazing group started over twenty years ago as a social group for Jewish teens with special needs. The group stayed together over the years and has grown into a special needs group for all adults in the community. There are currently 30 members, some of whom were part of the original teen group. The Owls participate in many activities throughout the year including arts and crafts, athletics, cooking, yoga, Jewish and secular holiday celebrations and, of course, field trips. Field trips include going to an Astros game, hay rides, mini golf, bowling, IMAX movies and much more. The program also allows for families of the group members to interact with each other and form a support network. Through community involvement, the group hopes to decrease the stigma surrounding people with special needs.

You do not have to be Jewish to join the group, but you do have to be a member of the ERJCC. Single adult memberships are available as well as scholarships for those who qualify.

For more information on the Nite Owls contact Eric Bishop at ebishop@erjcchouston.org or 713-729-3200 ext. 3230. 
To download the Nite Owls application click here.
 

STARS
STARS Preschool Intervention Program was designed to enable preschool children with language, social pragmatic and sensory motor challenges to attain skills required for transition into traditional school settings. Our program provides multi-disciplinary intervention in a highly structured, language based, creative and nurturing environment within a Jewish setting. Families are collaborative partners in the ongoing observation, treatment and education of our students. Children have the unique opportunity to develop communication, play and social skills with typical peer groups at a traditional preschool campus.

Click here for more information about the STARS Preschool Program.

Go to www.houstonjewish.org/Programsforspecial for other Special Needs programs in the community.

For information on joining the ERJCC, click here.