Special Needs

[happy_camper]

I know in a previous thread, I said that I may work at an MDA camp this summer, but my plans have changed. Now I will be at an Easter Seals Camp working with any of the following (don't know which yet):

Sickle Cell
Physical Handicap (child)
Mental Handicap (child)
Physical Handicap (adult)
Mental Handicap (adult)

In addition, I will very soon begin volunteering with a therapeutic horseback riding program.

Any Advice/Tips??
What should I expect??

[triplethreat]

If you've never worked with people with mental disabilities before, I suggest doing some reading on the subject so you will be familiar with the types of disability and techniques for working with them. The more knowledge you go in with the more comfortable you will feel.

Sounds like a great experience!

[laurathistle]

There are so many diffierent kinds of special needs a person may have, be they physicaly or mentaly challanged, it's hard to give advice on just one or two things.

Having said that there are two bits of advice I would give you.

If you are going to be working with people with physical disabilities, I would recomed that you get some sort of manual handling advice or training (I don't know if they call it something different in the US). Odds on you will be lifting and moving people and it is important for your back that you know how to do it safely, even if you have access to hoists/lifts/aids.


Secondly, be aware of the termanology used to describe different needs/disabilities. for example, in the UK we don't use the word handicap any more. even special needs is less common and additional support needs taking its place. It's a bit of a mine field, no one wants to offend!

PM me if you have any more questions

L

[happy_camper]

Thanks for all your replies. I am VERY excited and it is completely new territory for me. I have emailed the CD to ask about training, but he hasn't replied.

I know it will be hard, but I believe that this experience can change my life.

I can't wait!

[Wawbeek5]

I agree with prettysocks because you will be alot of young people like yourself that are giving up their summer to work with people with disabilities.

Last summer(2007) our director mentioned several times that we are taking on more responsibility then most young people do. For the most part, when the campers come to camp, its one of the few places that they aren't seen as being different. At camp, they fit right in.

There are a few campers that I worked with that have told me numerous times that to them, camp is a 2nd home.

Basically, you just have to come in with an open mind and you will be rewarded because at the end of the summer you will feel that you've made a difference. Also, just have fun and don't be afraid to act crazy.