All children have the right to play. Afterschool programs that include children with special needs allow all children to develop social skills as well as participate in enrichment activities. These programs bring out the best in all the children.
-- Elizabeth Fulmer
This article talks about all the positive things that come out of students participating in after school activities. There are different non profit organizations that allow students to participate. Another part of this article talks about how the activities should be chosen on interest, not ability. I completely agree with that!
I wonder if there is an organization out there that could help fund these extra curricular activities for families that might not be able to afford it? I know at the school I student taught at, they had a program where students could have a mentor and would spend some time with them after school doing various activities. I believe this did not cost any money for the family.
ReplyDeleteYour post reminded me of another charity that is geared toward the inclusion of children with special needs in recreational programs: The National Inclusion Project (http://www.inclusionproject.org/). I actually learned about this organization on The Celebrity Apprentice because Clay Aiken, the runner-up, is one of the founders of this organization. You may want to check it out if you haven't already.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sarah!
ReplyDelete