It’s hard being a kid sometimes. Even at the youngest ages, they are trying to figure out how to navigate the world around them. Every day seems to bring something new to learn, all while trying to remember what they just learned the day before. And then there is the social pressure of trying to figure out how to either stand out or how to blend in. Having a disability can add yet another layer that can make things a bit more difficult and lead to more stress.
Help is at your fingertips in the form of inclusion services. Working together, the Naperville Park District (NPD) and the Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) provide inclusion services so that every child can have the best experience possible when participating with peers in any NPD program. Inclusion services are designed to meet your child’s specific needs and afford them every opportunity to perform at their highest level of ability.
Simply check off the box requesting special accommodations when you register for a fall NPD program.
WDSRA will work with you to identify what specific concerns you have about your child’s ability to participate and your goals for your child. We’ll discuss your child’s strengths and what can be done to build upon those strengths to help him or her be successful. Common goals include developing a new skill, learning appropriate social interactions or trying to elevate a level of independence.
Specific support may come in the form of training park district staff or coaches, providing adaptive materials, providing a one-on-one support staff, or anywhere in between. Once the necessary accommodations are determined, WDSRA works closely with the NPD to facilitate the process.
For instance, a child just entering preschool with a learning disability or who is on the Autism spectrum may benefit from a one-on-one support staff. That staff could be someone who is dedicated to working with your child to keep their focus and to guide him or her throughout the program. For other NPD programs, inclusion support may include training an instructor or coach on how to better include your child or modifications to the materials or equipment used.
Additionally, inclusion services are far from static. As your child grows and develops, his or her needs change. So too do the type of services used. A child who required a one-on-one support staff early on may find that only slight material modifications are needed years later.
This service is provided at no additional cost to your family. You pay only the regular cost of the park district program.
So this fall, with just a little extra help, your child can have the best experience possible whether it is in preschool or a NPD program.
To learn more, visit www.wdsra.com or call (630) 681-0962.
