“Kayla* really enjoys attending Rainbow Day Camp; her experience there has been very positive,” says Jennifer, whose daughter Kayla has Down syndrome. “As a parent, it is very important to know that my child can go somewhere and be welcomed and supported.” 

For Jennifer, the Inclusive Summer Day Camp at Rainbow Programmes for Children, funded by your United Way, is just that somewhere.  After trying other programs, Kayla will be attending Rainbow Day Camp for her fifth summer this year.

The fully inclusive program offers weekly day camps for children and youth ages 4 to 15+.  The program varies from week-to-week, but always includes swimming and a weekly special guest.  Some children, like Kayla, are provided with qualified inclusion counsellors to make sure their time at camp meets their needs.  The support she receives from an inclusion support worker allows her to participate fully in the program.

“I have a high degree of comfort because I know she is being well-cared for,” adds Jennifer.  “The inclusion support staff and Rainbow staff, in general, have always been wonderful.”

In Jennifer’s experience, not many camps in Guelph have embraced inclusion to the extent that Rainbow has.

“I think the experience at Rainbow also fosters opportunities for friendship. Kayla is very fortunate to be able to attend a camp like Rainbow.”

*Names have been changed to protect anonymity.