Read on for some real-life stories of inclusion:
Jarrod's story
Jarrod was born with Spina Bifida and a lot of orthopaedic issues that stopped him from walking. We needed to find a fun way for him to do therapy as he hated doing it and found a karate school that met his needs. Jarrod has attended an inclusive karate class since he was 4 years old. He was not able to walk or stand independently, instead he used a frame to walk. This did not stop him from participating as the school modified the exercises and Jarrod thrived. He loves being part of the school and goes to weekly classes. The school has worked really hard to be as inclusive as they are. They adapt the curriculum, have made changes to the building, have helped with reports for funding needs, and have even helped with wheelchair design for better karate-based outcomes. For us as a family they have made us feel like we belong there with them.
Elle's story
Elle is 5 years old and loves to dance. She has been going to hip-hop dance classes for the past 8 months at a local dance school with other children of her age. Elle has cerebral palsy (right-side hemiplegia) so some dance moves can be tricky, but her dance teacher modifies these so she can participate fully in dance routines. Although some moves are difficult for Elle to do, she has an incredible memory so often helps her classmates to follow dance sequences when they get stuck. There is a real sense of friendship and belonging in the group that beats any physical barriers. At the end of the year all classes will be performing in front of an audience and Elle is very excited to show off her dance moves.
Mai's story
Yoga for Mai has been such a great experience. Mai has been going to a weekly kids yoga class since she was 4. It not only helps with her physical needs, but also teaches her how to relax. Because Mai has Down syndrome the exercises really help with her tone and coordination, but in a fun and social way. Before Mai started classes we talked to her yoga teacher about what would help Mai join in and she was so open to our ideas, like letting Mai sit in on a few classes and sending through a photo of herself before Mai met her. She also asked to contact Mai’s physiotherapist to talk about suggestions for exercises and they have come up with a great program that suits all the kids. Mai has come in leaps and bounds since starting yoga and is so happy to have made friends in the class.
Riley's story
We were a bit worried when Riley asked to play soccer in his older brother’s soccer club. Because it was a competitive team sport we didn’t think that it would be a good fit for Riley, who wasn’t very coordinated and had some language delays, especially understanding what others say. But we were pleasantly surprised when we spoke with one of the coaches. He invited Riley to come to a couple of obligation free classes and asked us how they could support Riley. They helped Riley to learn the skills by using visual aids and breaking the larger group into smaller ones so they could keep instructions simple and check with him for understanding. Riley loves going to soccer with his big brother and wears his uniform everywhere. It’s become a family affair and we feel so welcome and connected to our soccer community.
Louis's story
Luis has attended martial arts since he was three years old. Luis has level 2 autism and verbal dyspraxia. When he began classes he was nonverbal and was just beginning to learn sign language. The teachers at the school worked with him on learning signs and being able to join in with the class. Classes are always inclusive and fun. Some of the adaptations that were made for Luis included doing private classes until he was comfortable, letting him choose the activities for the day, doing classes outside, sending us the class plan each week, having regular breaks and bringing his dog to every class. Now he participates every week with his dog and is learning some wonderful life skills along the way.