29/06/2024
What is inclusion?
It's not just saying "You are welcome here" and making a place in our programs for everyone. That's only a start.
Real inclusion is so much more.
Taking the time to find out what each child needs, making adjustments that take those needs into account, making sure there are opportunities for every child to participate and share their own uniqueness with others in the group - that's real inclusion.
That can look like a child booking in and attending our sessions with little to no contact between booking and arriving, or it can involve hours of discussion and planning once the booking is made to set the child up for success.
For children with special needs who may have never felt part of something or that they belong in a group of friends, this is what can change their world.
And for children who have not had much contact with children with special needs, it's how they learn that everyone has something to offer.
Some of the kids who struggle most being accepted and included are the same kids who have amazing skills and talents to share. Those are the kids who often end up leaders in our programs.
In our groups, everyone is valued as an individual and everyone is recognised for what they can offer the community.
I strongly believe that this is how peace begins - sowing the seeds of acceptance and appreciation for each other one child at a time.
