Theatre Direct is partnering with Reach for the Rainbow to provide an opportunity for a child with disabilities to participate in our summer camp programming this year. Reach for the Rainbow is a non-profit organization that among other things provides training and support for integration of children and youth with disabilities into mainstream society through recreation and summer camp programs with partner organizations throughout Ontario. On June 9, 2011 I attended the 22nd annual Reach for the Rainbow conference to begin our journey of integration and to further my knowledge of accessibility and inclusion in our programming. What a fantastic conference!
Reach for the Rainbow’s annual conference is a training and education day for support counselors and camp integration coordinators to get inspired and learn how to find the resources they need for a successful summer with their 1:1 campers. I chose sessions that would help me understand inclusion and integration in a broader way to be as accommodating as possible when we receive our camper, though, most importantly the individual and the family will be the greatest resource in learning how best to adapt the programming (if at all) or how to be supportive in creating a positive camp experience.
I learned practical strategies to support campers with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders) I gained a fantastic kit with tools to assist in creating a rewarding day for a camper with ASD. I participated in other workshops focused on inclusion, working with youth and adult volunteers and adapting arts to suit the individual.
The keynote speaker was Heather McCracken Founder of the Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society . Though she spoke mostly to ASD her address was very motivating and provided excellent resources for promoting inclusion including: The 7 Friendship tips a video created by Iain Robbins, Heather’s Son with ASD.
With the help of the conference I feel confident in using creativity and the resources amassed to create an inclusive and integrated environment for our camper this summer and for our drama school moving forward. I am excited about what our campers will gain from an integrated environment as well!
To learn more about Reach for the Rainbow visit their website.
Kristin Rodgerson Education Coordinator