15. December 2021

Since its foundation, FIS has held the firm belief that snow sports is for all. To advance this idea, FIS and the Special Olympics have teamed up to release the Special Olympics 10. “The idea behind the 10 steps is that any one can pick them up and know the basics for interacting with a person with an intellectual disability while skiing or snowboarding” said FIS Development Manager Dimitrije Lazarovski.

The 10 steps are as follows:

1. Be patient – Persons with an intellectual disability require more time. Be patient and stay calm.

2. Use clear communication – Use simple, concise and consistent language and avoid using complex analogies or metaphors.

3. Listen – Communication works both ways. As well as talking, listen to a person with an intellectual disability. You will receive a lot of information.

4. Select an appropriate slope – Safety is imperative. When skiing or snowboarding with a person with an intellectual disability select a slope and lift that is suited to their level.

5. Modify only if needed – Plan lessons or day on the snow with the needs of a person with an intellectual disability in mind. Modifications should be made only when it will help the person learn better.

6. Build a relationship – Take time to get to know a person with an intellectual disability. Identify their likes, dislikes and what interests them about snow sports.

7. Respect the individual – A person with an intellectual disability is a person. Therefore, treat them as you would like to be treated.

8. Meet their goals, not yours – Work with the person to identify their goals and then work towards those goals.

9. Respect their autonomy – Having an intellectual disability does not mean they have no opinions or valid input. Encourage and welcome their contributions.

10. Be creative – There are many ways to teach the same technique. Do not be afraid to use these various methods with a person with an intellectual disability.

Special Olympics Senior Director of Sport Development Jon-Paul St. Germain “Special Olympics is thrilled to partner with FIS to promote SnowKidz and World Snow Day as a great opportunity for Special Olympics athletes to have fun in the snow, appreciate the beauty of our natural world and be active with friends.”

To increase communication the Special Olympics 10 has been translated into 17 languages with more available upon request. In addition the steps have also been adapted to the FIS SnowKidz and World Snow Day graphics. To obtain the Special Olympics 10 resorts, ski and snowboard schools, tourism organisations or any other snow sports stake holders can click the link below and download the files.

www.cloud.fis-ski.com/specialolympics10

Alternatively you can also email FIS or Special Olympics via the links below

worldsnowday@fisski.com

snowkidz@fisski.com

research@specialolympics.org