Children with physical and developmental disabilities recently attended a summer camp run by Health Sciences North's Children’s Treatment Centre.

This year, 20 children participated in the camp.

“Every child deserves the chance to participate in a summer camp and enjoy a variety of activities such as karate and dance, even if that child has a physical or developmental challenge,” according to a press release from the hospital.

The summer camp was run by staff at the Children’s Treatment Centre, which includes occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and a social worker along with staff from the ICAN.

The focus of the camp is fun, with therapy goals integrated into the activities. These activities focus on physical, fine motor, and social skills.

Guest instructors from various community groups and volunteers from HSN’s Volunteer Services joined the children for activities such as karate, dance, zumba, and arts and crafts.

“The summer camp is such an incredible experience for our children and has been instrumental in building friendships, self-confidence and learning new skills,” Marisa Mancinelli, occupational therapist at the Children’s Treatment Centre, said in the press release.

The Children’s Treatment Centre provides therapy intervention to children with physical and developmental challenges. Each year, it serves more than 1,600 children, ranging in age from 0-18.

Posted by Heidi Ulrichsen