“The Game of Life “  

Every Monday evening, rain or shine our boys and girls are out on the football field in their new uniforms practicing their “moves”. They are participating in “The Game of Life” a new therapeutic program designed to develop social skills and behavioral norms. This innovative approach uses football (soccer) as a tool for acquiring social skill sets while giving our youngsters a chance to play sports in a regular and professional manner but specifically adapted to their needs.  And what Israeli child is not an ardent football fan – our children are no exception!

 The “team” meets weekly for football practice, social interaction and group discussions. These are led by a professional coach and are designed to encourage normative physical activity  adapted to the children’s needs and enjoyed by all. Discussions of the processes and situations created during the practice are related to the participants’ real life experiences. Through football this program strengthens self-image, encourages social behavior, improves communication and motor skills, relieves pressures and provides a feeling of belonging.

The team receives all necessary equipment including balls, flags uniforms, cones, and coaches’ uniforms. The children also participate in tournaments with other similar groups, and are invited by their coaches to watch professional games.

This unique program is giving our children a chance, usually the first ever for them, to feel and play just like everyone else.