Many kids with developmental disabilities struggle with thing other children take for granted.
12 year old Grant Iraci didn't want to attend the bike clinic this week at RIT’s Gordon Field House, but three days in he's glad he did.
“It's amazing. I've never been able to do it, and now in 3 days with this system I've been able to do it. It's amazing for me” says Iraci.
The program originated in Kansas. The group Upstate NY Families for Effective Autism Treatment brought it here 3 years ago. Participants must be at least 8 years-old and have a disability ranging from autism to cerebral palsy.
Over the course of 5 days volunteers use special bikes, with long rollers replacing the back wheels, to help the kids learn balance before graduating to their own traditional bikes.
The program is more than a learning tool. It's also a confidence builder.
Grant Iraci already has his eyes set on a new goal… learning to swim. His mom Kim is in awe of the difference just three days have made in her son.
“It was amazing. I was in tears. He couldn't wait to come in a Skype his dad, because his dad was at work and he said I did it!”
