"Deeply moving" or "Affectively intense"
In Quebec, Canada, a unique summer camp is making a significant impact on the lives of individuals with diverse disabilities and behavioral disorders. The Sainte-Julie camp, one of the few camps in the province to welcome such a clientele, is currently hosting 12 participants, a decrease from the usual 20 due to the current circumstances.
The camp prides itself on providing an inclusive, supportive environment that emphasizes abilities, social skills, motor skills, independence, and experience-based learning. Each day at the camp is filled with a mix of structured activities and free time, catering to the varied needs and preferences of its participants.
During the day, activities range from treasure hunts and pool time to DIY sessions, dance classes, and outdoor play. Dinner and relaxation periods are followed by pool time, with animators ensuring that everyone is well taken care of, especially when it comes to getting dressed and applying sunscreen. For users who wear diapers, Juliette Parent uses gloves to apply sunscreen to maintain hygiene and comfort.
The animators at the camp have diverse backgrounds, but they all share a common goal: working "with the human." Mathilde Raiche, the responsible animator, initially sought a job at the camp and later redirected her studies towards social work. Laurent Bélanger, who takes care of non-verbal user Sami*, has formed a strong bond with him. To accommodate the different levels of autonomy, some animators form pairs, despite a lack of budget for grouping.
The camp's clientele ranges in age from 7 to 48 and includes individuals with conditions such as epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, Leigh syndrome, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome. Emmanuelle, a 21-year-old camper with Leigh syndrome, is one of the most inspiring participants, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination. Cassandra, a young camper who shares a fascination for Celine Dion, brings joy and energy to the camp with her music. Meanwhile, Little Tim*, a 7-year-old non-verbal user, requires extra care and attention, but his joy during activities is a testament to the camp's success.
Free activity periods at the camp are popular, as some users prefer DIY projects, others dance, and the most energetic ask to go outside and play. A large excretion during pool time is considered normal and even brings a hint of humor to the camp's daily routine. Dinner time is a calmer period for the participants, with some animators eating with them and others helping them eat. Throughout dinner, a packet of wet wipes is constantly passed around, with "Where are the wipes?" being the most spoken phrase of the day.
The Sainte-Julie camp is just one example of the many specialized camps and programs in Quebec that focus on creating inclusive, accessible, and engaging environments designed to build confidence, socialization, and life skills in participants with a variety of disabilities and behavioral challenges. Other notable camps include Camp A.B.L.E., Camp Sharing Meadows, Hand In Hand Farm, the Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA, and CDI's Camp Towhee and Camp Wimodausis.
These camps and programs offer a holistic approach to support diverse disabilities and behavioral differences, balancing structured activities with opportunities for fun, independence, and community integration. For further details or registration, contacting the respective camps or organizations directly is advised.
*Names have been changed to protect privacy.
- The camp's inclusive environment encourages learning and personal growth in areas such as science, health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and mental health, all essential components of a well-rounded life.
- Mathilde Raiche, the responsible animator, decided to redirect her studies toward social work after discovering the unique impact of the camp on individuals with diverse disabilities.
- The camp's comprehensive offerings include a focus on nutrition, a crucial aspect of health-and-wellness, with activities like DIY sessions and meals prepared with the participants' needs in mind.
- Beyond social skills and motor skills, the camp centers on education-and-self-development, fostering experiences that promote independence and lifelong learning.
