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Over the summer holidays, it can feel like the world is even less accessible than usual for disabled children. Too often, events and activities prove challenging for the families we support. 81%* of families told us they felt left out at festivals or celebrations because of their child’s disability or serious illness.
Keeping your child safe and happy over summer
We spoke to Casha, mum of eight-year-old Parker who says, “Parker can follow clear, basic instructions but gets easily distracted which is dangerous. He does not understand danger and can run off.
“People we know will tell us, ‘You should go here’, or, ‘You should try going to this place, the kids will love it.’ The first question Craig, Parker’s dad, and I ask is, does it have parameters? Because if it’s not enclosed, it’s not for us.”
“Sometimes we’ll laugh about it, but it does really affect what we can and can’t do as a family. The best places are ones where the entry is the same as the exit. This makes our garden, and the play equipment grant from Family Fund, even more special, because we know it’s safe.”
Small gestures make a big difference
Small acts of kindness make a world of difference for families with disabled or seriously ill children.
Holly is mum to eight-year-old Olivia and five-year-old Matthew. When asked how she spent her Family Fund day out grant, Holly explains: “We went to Chester Zoo for a family day out. Our family rarely get out of the house. It’s hard on my own with two children with neuro-disabilities, and it’s expensive. Chester Zoo was just fantastic. The kids were made up and it is such an accessible, understanding place.
“One member of staff noticed us in a very long queue (it was the opening weekend for the snow leopards). I think they realised that the kids wouldn’t be able to queue for so long, and they saw Olivia’s wheelchair. The staff member asked us to come with them, and took us to the front of the queue.”
“It was fantastic because it meant my children could have the same experiences as the rest of the children at Chester Zoo that day.”
Are you looking for fun activities this summer that your child can enjoy?
