It's not yet spring, but V-LINC is already planning for The Mary Salkever Inclusive Summer Day Camp. We are recruiting children 7 to 14, those with disabilities and typically developing children, who want to join us for an unforgettable experience. Parents rave about how much their children enjoy camp and how happy they are when they come home after a day at camp. It is a unique experience with technology (like web design) and outings (like the aquarium) and experiences with a diverse group of children who learn to help each other out.
Each child, like Angel shown (above right) with a touchscreen on her computer monitor, is given the tools they need to do what others are doing at their computers. The atmosphere is warm and friendly with only 12 campers and helpers of all ages. Every summer we see new friendships formed and new skills learned. Nothing is as exciting for staff as observing the campers getting to know each other and offering help. Zahid, a long time camper diagnosed with autism also has a short span of attention and boundless energy, yet he found the patience to help Angel on her computer. Angel was independently listening to a story book and getting frustrated as she couldn’t get the book to progress to the next page. Zahid independently walked over and aided Angel by showing her how (not doing for) and where to tap the screen to continue the story.
