|
|
Inclusion Programs
 Inclusion Afterschool Program for Children with Autism:
The Inclusion Based Afterschool Program was developed in 2008 through the collaboration of YMCA of Greater Charlotte, the Autism Foundation of the Carolinas, and the Autism Society of North Carolina to provide children with autism many benefits, including inclusion, socialization, communication and life skills. At the time, there were no other Afterschool programs that served children who were mild to moderate on the autism spectrum. The intent of these three organizations in designing this program was to provide yet another way parents could help their children flourish, learn and continue to move along the spectrum toward a more independent, productive life.
The pilot program seeks to provide a balance of educational support and recreational activities for each child, while providing a safe, nurturing and enriching environment to meet each child’s unique needs. A ratio of one counselor to every three children enables this Afterschool program to offer a tailored curriculum for each child. The focus of the program is to enhance independent functional living skills and self management skills by presenting opportunities for socialization, communication and self-directed choice in a relaxing and fun environment.
 2009-2010 Afterschool Inclusion Brochure
2009-2010 Inclusion Afterschool Preregistration Form
2009-2010 Inclusion Program Volunteer Application
 Summer Day Camp Program for Children with Autism:
Camp BoomerangTM is an inclusion based summer day camp for children with autism ages 5-15. All campers will participate in age appropriate activities that include nature, parachute, field sports, low ropes, tower, fishing, swimming, devotions, and arts and crafts. In addition, campers will take part in music and occupational enrichment activities several times a week.
Support staff (peer buddies, two-on-one staffing and one-on-one staffing) can be provided to children with autism. Due to YMCA camping guidelines, campers must be toilet trained in order to participate in Camp BoomerangTM. Parents are encouraged to contact the Senior Program Director to discuss specific circumstances.
Registration takes place on a first come, first serve basis but is not considered complete until the following forms are filled out and turned in: Siskey Day Camp Registration and Boomerang Camper Profile. This program can accomadate up to 30 campers with autism per week.
 |
Thanks to a grant from the ASC which allowed us to provide Music Therapy for Camp Boomerang.
|
 |
This project was made possible, in part, with funding by the Arts & Science Council and the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Cultural Resources, and the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art. |
For more information contact:
Liz DeFreitas
Senior Program Director, Afterschool, Camp and Preschool
(704) 716-4338
liz.defreitas@ymcacharlotte.org
|
|