Ana-Marija Dragojević
Ana-Marija and Marko Dragojević founded the Travnjak Tennis Club ten years ago to help autistic children through sport. Their training program, tailored to the needs of these children, has facilitated the development of motor and social skills, much to the satisfaction of parents. Over time, the club has become recognized for its innovative approach and support for children with autism, providing them with a safe environment. Through workshops and lectures, they have raised awareness about autism in the community. Ten years later, the club has become more than just a place for training—it has become a community. Ana-Marija and Marko are already planning new projects to grow the club further.
MY SESSIONS
The application of AAC in sports activities
About session
The lecture on the application of AAC in sports activities, presented through the video story of Ana-Marija Dragojević from the Travnjak Tennis Club, demonstrates how AAC and visual support can enhance work with individuals on the autism spectrum. Within the "Fitness Autism" program and tennis, the club has implemented various forms of visual support in collaboration with educational rehabilitators. Timers are used as time markers for the duration of activities, while visual schedules provide predictability, and a talking schedule breaks down activities into individual steps. Communication boards, prepared in Boardmaker 7, allow participants to express their wishes and needs through symbols. This video story aims to inspire other sports organizations to apply assisted communication in their work, enabling individuals with autism to participate equally in sports activities.