Adaptive Sports for Special Needs Kids in and around NOLA
For special needs parents, thinking about signing them up for a sports league can feel impossible. “There’s no way my kid can swing a bat, let alone run 3 bases!” But I’m here to tell you, there are plenty of options for your kiddo, regardless of their ability, and they are all a short drive away.
When we moved to the Northshore last year, we started the hunt for adaptive sports leagues for our nonverbal daughter, Alana. We wanted her to be active and, most importantly, to have fun. Through a little research online, we found some wonderful programs that cater to a variety of abilities and needs. If you’re looking for an inclusive sports experience for your child, here are some of the best options we’ve tried and a few that are still on our list.
Alley Kittens Bowling League
One of the first sports groups we tried was the Alley Kittens bowling league, part of the Ree Alario Special Needs Center in Metairie. This center offers a variety of sports options and summer camps starting at six years old. I was a little nervous about how Alana would handle bowling with the noise and lights, but to my surprise, she did so well! She needed breaks at times, but everyone was so supportive and patient. Watching her roll the bowling ball down the lane was a proud moment for me, but her absolute favorite part was cheering for the other kids as they took their turns! The community at Alley Kittens made this experience so special. Who knew watching your kiddo roll a bowling ball could feel like winning a gold medal?!
Miracle League Northshore
Next, we gave Miracle League Northshore a try. I never imagined Alana holding a bat or running bases, but thanks to the incredible volunteers, she did both! They helped her every step of the way, making sure she was comfortable and engaged. The field was easy to access, parking was close by, and the coaches were incredibly supportive and easygoing. Seeing her smile while playing baseball was priceless, and it reminded me that our kids are capable of so much more than we sometimes expect. This league is a fantastic choice for any child who wants to experience the joy of team sports in a safe and inclusive environment. Don’t be afraid to try something new—even if it includes chasing your kid across a baseball field with a sun hat flying behind you!
Daily Walks by the Lakefront
Alana’s third favorite “sport” is something simple but essential: our daily walks along the lakefront. She loves making her way to her favorite playground, and these walks are a great way to ensure she gets enough movement in her day. I’ve noticed that after our walks, she’s more grounded, happy, and calm. Just like everyone else, our kids need movement to feel their best! Pack the bubbles, crank up their favorite playlist, and call it “outdoorsy therapy.”
Places We Still Want to Try
We Rock the Spectrum Northshore opened this year in Mandeville, offering an inclusive sensory play environment with obstacle courses and gym equipment. It’s a dream for kids who love to climb and explore. Their calendar is full of events and classes for all abilities. Another place on our list is Able Fit by Bernadette Lala at Clementi’s Gladiator Academy in Slidell, which provides Adaptive Group Classes focused on fitness and social skills. Adaptive Sailing Clinics and Sensory Karate Class @ JFK Martial Arts are also on our list to try. TLC offers similar fun and educational group classes in Metairie. All of these could keep special needs kids active and engaged year round! There’s nothing like the joy of finding a place where your child is not just accepted—but celebrated.
Adaptive Summer Camps on the Northshore and South Shore
I’ve rounded up a list of camps for families that are looking for inclusive, adaptive, and sensory-friendly options this summer break. These camps are now open for 2026 registration. Coffee in hand, sunscreen in the bag, and we’re off to another adventure!
Camp Benny
Camp Benny is a wonderful inclusive summer day camp in Metairie for children aged 6-11 with Autism. It’s hosted by the Beignet Fest Foundation and is held at Ruldolph Matas Elementary School in Metairie. Camp Benny provides a supportive experience for children who might not thrive in traditional camp settings. Learn more about Camp Benny here. Making friends, burning energy, and getting all the wiggles out—yes, please!
JPRD Camps
Jefferson Parish Recreation Department (JPRD) offers a range of youth camps through its Leisure Service Division. They host summer camps, holiday camps, and specialty camps. Camp Moonbeam, Camp Rainbow, Camp Sunshine, Pinnacles Summer Hang About Club and Teen Scene Camp are open for registration here. There’s something for everyone year round!
Camp Tiger
Camp Tiger is another gem. This week-long day camp is open to children ages 6-15 with physical and/or mental challenges in and around NOLA. The camp is run by first-year medical students from LSUHSC School of Medicine and is designed especially for children who cannot attend other special needs camps. The 2:1 camper-to-counselor ratio ensures that each child gets the care they need. Learn more about Camp Tiger here.
LAAPA Camps
LAAPA Summer Music and Dance Camps, with locations in New Orleans and Mandeville, are creative and inclusive options. These camps offer a variety of music, vocal, drama, and dance classes for children aged 5-14. Each child picks six programs per week and explores them in fun, theme-based sessions. With only 30 campers per week and a specific section in their application to accommodate special needs, LAAPA ensures attention and support. Learn more here. After one week of Music & Dance camp, your child might just start requesting it every single morning (yes, even on Saturdays).
Krewe De Camp
Krewe De Camp by Friends Helping Kids is a nonprofit organization that hosts a one-week camp experience for children with disabilities. The best part? It’s completely free for campers and their families! Krewe De Camp includes swimming, arts and crafts, concerts, dances, all in a nurturing environment that encourages connection and joy. Learn more here.
Find Their Niche
There are so many adaptive sports leagues and camps available in and around New Orleans, Metairie, and the Northshore. If you don’t find something that fits your child’s abilities, or your schedule, don’t worry! Daily walks, scooter and balance bike rides, scavenger hunt adventures and swimming are all fantastic ways to keep them active and screen-free. The most important thing is to discover what they love and help them build a healthy routine around it. You don’t have to do summer perfectly. Just lead with heart, sunscreen, and a little extra planning and patience.
Dana this is just amazing what y’all are doing , this is wonderful info and beautiful story and pictures of her enjoying the sports , Love you all deeply ????✝️????????????????????
Thank you! Hoping other families find our lists helpful 🙂
Dana
Wonderful informative post. Best to you in your new endeavor
Ms Val
I know your first article is as appreciated by moms and dads alike throughout your reading area and beyond. I am so thrilled that you have found your niche, and we all are benefitting from your gift of authorship.
Thank you! I hope I can help other families by sharing our own experiences 🙂
Thank you! It’s been fun so far 🙂