According to the article, why did Nik Nikic encourage his son to get involved in the Special Olympics?
a He wanted his son to overcome physical challenges, such as ear surgeries.
b He wanted to raise awareness for the Special Olympics Triathlon program.
c He wanted to inspire Nikic to become a hero to others.
b He wanted to find ways to ensure Nikic did not become isolated after graduation.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is d) He wanted to find ways to ensure Nikic did not become isolated after graduation.
In the article, Nik Nikic, the father of Nik Nikic, encouraged his son to participate in the Special Olympics not only to support his physical challenges but also to address a broader concern: the potential isolation that individuals with intellectual disabilities often face after completing their schooling. As Nik was preparing for his transition from high school, his father recognized the difficulty that many people with intellectual disabilities experience when they age out of the school system. Without a structured environment like school, they can become socially isolated or struggle to find meaningful engagement in society.
Nik Nikic’s father understood the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and purpose for his son. The Special Olympics provided a platform for Nik to engage in a community that would encourage physical fitness, but more importantly, it gave him the opportunity to form social connections, pursue goals, and experience personal growth in an inclusive environment. The Special Olympics helped him develop skills, build self-confidence, and connect with others who shared similar experiences.
This desire to avoid isolation is central to the motivations behind his father’s encouragement for Nik to get involved in the Special Olympics. By participating in events like triathlons, Nik found a community where he could thrive, gain recognition, and become a source of inspiration to others, including those with disabilities. This was not just about overcoming physical challenges, but also about ensuring that Nik had a fulfilling, connected life beyond school. Thus, the key motivation was to provide Nik with an opportunity to remain engaged and avoid the isolation that many individuals with disabilities face after graduation.