VIDBE-Q Volume 67 Issue 3
potential interesting and important themes that could be explored. The camp
instructors could focus on multiple areas of the ECC or hone in on individual areas
such as technology, compensatory skills, like braille, or recreation and leisure.
Other possible camp themes could center on core curricular areas such as math,
history or STEM. The possibilities are endless and only constrained by the
creativity of your camp team. It is also very important to factor in all of the needs
of the students attending camp. Don't forget to budget in all personnel costs,
including interpreters, paraprofessionals/aides and nursing care, if needed.
Overall, the grant project was a success and everyone felt very positive
about the experience for the students and student interns. The camps were a great
example of how a partnership between university faculty and school/agency
partners can facilitate meaningful educational experiences for children with low
incidence sensory disabilities. The camp instructors had the opportunity to work on
areas of the ECC that are often left out of traditional school year services. The
camp provided very meaningful practicum experiences for the student interns,
allowing them to interact with a diversity of children and engage with experienced
professional colleagues and families. And finally, the children had the opportunity
to work on important ECC skills while having the time of their life!
