Kids with physical disabilities are often left out because a building isn’t accessible, there is no accessible transportation, or a program won’t accommodate someone in a wheelchair.
March kicks off Easter Seals annual campaign to raise funds and bring awareness to the challenges and needs of kids with physical disabilities.
Accessibility means more than just ramps, elevators and electric door openers. It is also being able to join a group and play together, enabling a child with a disability to be included and have a sense of belonging.
“Having an accessible building or offering an accessible program sends a very positive message to child with a physical disability,” says Jennifer Green, an Easter Seals parent.
“It says ‘Yes, you can’ instead of ‘No, you can’t.'” At Easter Seals camp, when asked ‘Who wants to …..?’ my son, Cameron, always raises his hand and shouts ‘Yah.’ He always knows he will be able to participate in anything being offered at camp whether it’s sailing, crafts, cooking or swimming.”
“We have heard from the kids we serve that the feeling of being different and excluded leads to tremendous stress and anxiety. Easter Seals’ services are so important because they enable kids to get out into the community or attend Easter Seals camp and experience a sense of belonging,” says Kevin Collins, President and CEO, Easter Seals Ontario.
