Summer Fun & Travel

HOW TO EVALUATE RECREATION PROGRAMS FOR A CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

BY BONNIE IVERS, M.A., PSY.D.

Social and recreational programs can greatly enhance every child's quality of life year-round, but these activities often take center stage in the summer, when school's out. Without the structure, predictability, and daily interactions with peers that school offers, children with disabilities can lose ground, especially with the social skills that can be a challenge for many. Summer recreation programs can help fill that gap, while broadening a child's interests, skills and social circle.