Running from April 13 until the end of the month, this activity is taking place in Tres Cantos, integrated into the school calendar to offer an educational experience beyond traditional classrooms. The program, a result of collaboration between Special Olympics Madrid, the Tres Cantos City Council, and the Niqui Foundation, targets 5th-grade primary students, aiming for them to understand the importance of diversity through direct participation.
The methodology focuses on sports dynamics and games designed to help young people put themselves in others' shoes, breaking down mental barriers. The goal is not only physical activity but also to instill that respect and social inclusion are fundamental pillars for healthy coexistence in the municipality.
To observe the program's impact, the mayor of Tres Cantos, Jesús Moreno, visited the CEIP Carmen Hernández Guarch. He was accompanied by officials from the Education, Family and Equality, and Sports departments, who closely observed the students' activities. This visit highlights the municipal commitment to the comprehensive education of children, emphasizing human quality alongside academic excellence.
“"Programs like 'Training in Values' are fundamental for building a more just and inclusive society, from its foundation. Educating in respect, empathy, and diversity is, without a doubt, a priority for this City Council, and seeing how our young people internalize these values through sports is enormously satisfying."
The program extends to 9 public schools and 2 subsidized private schools in Tres Cantos, totaling 11 intensive training sessions. The strategy avoids theoretical lectures, opting for experiential learning. Through games, students experience the daily challenges faced by people with intellectual disabilities, which helps prevent school bullying and fosters sensitivity and mutual support.
A distinctive aspect of the program is the active participation of technicians with intellectual disabilities as monitors. This allows children to see them as role models, breaking stereotypes and witnessing their capabilities firsthand. Marisa Peña, Education Councilor, emphasized that this initiative complements academic education with essential life learning.
“"This is an initiative that complements the academic education of young people with essential life learning. Working on inclusion from an early age contributes to forming more conscious, respectful, and committed citizens in their environment."
Sonia Lolo, head of Family and Equality, highlighted the importance of sports as a tool for cohesion and a shield against intolerance. According to Lolo, the program not only raises awareness but also breaks down barriers and stereotypes, promoting equality and consciousness about diversity as an opportunity for collective enrichment. With the participation of over 600 students, Tres Cantos reinforces its commitment to solidarity and coexistence.
