August 13, 2020 - Since deciding to run their Kid's Camps virtually, CNIB staff members are discovering some unexpected positive results.
"We are finding that running our programs virtually is bringing out opportunities our kids may not have had otherwise. It has connected us to rural participants that wouldn't have been able to participate if the camps were in-person as they usually take place in Regina and Saskatoon. They have also been connected to people like a partially sighted children's author. Another great result, is not only are they becoming adept at using technology but that technology is connecting them to their peers who share the common experience of being blind or partially sighted from across the province," said Ashley Nemeth, the Program Lead for Community Engagement and Advocacy with CNIB.
For those who are blind or partially sighted, moving through the critical stages of childhood, adolescence and early adulthood can bring unique challenges on a practical, emotional, physical and social level. These years are a critical period where young people develop the confidence, independence and sense of self-identity and worth necessary for long-term success in life.
In comparison to their sighted peers, children and youth with sight loss experience a lower sense of social inclusion – with only 23 per cent belonging to clubs and a third of their parents say their child has never received a birthday party invitation.
"Children and youth that are blind or partially sighted need to have experiences like camp so they feel they are a part of something and are not feeling left out due to their sight loss," said Paige Andreas the program lead in the North for CNIB. "I attended CNIB's camp program when I was younger and really benefitted from the experience. I am really thankful I could be a part of this and give back to other children with sight loss."
This week's Kid's Camps are taking place thanks to funding by Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation from August 10-14. For children ages five to 11 the camp takes place from 10-11:00 a.m. daily and for youth's ages 12 to 16 the camp take place from 1-2:30 p.m. daily. The youth will also lead a session for the younger children on Thursday.
"Camp programs like this provide youth with the tools, motivation and opportunity to grow and develop leadership skills to develop into confident and competent adults. Programs that connect those with sight loss to activities and projects that build their skills and confidence can make a world of difference," said Nemeth.
About CNIB
CNIB is a registered charity, passionately providing community-based support, knowledge and a national voice to ensure Canadians who are blind or partially sighted have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life.
The primary objective of CNIB is to create an inclusive, accessible, barrier-free society that provides the tools Canadians with vision loss require to live safe, fulfilling and independent lives. For more information, visit cnib.ca.
For further information and interviews, please contact:
Jackie Lay, Communications Specialist, CNIB Saskatchewan Foundation
Cell: (306)514-2796 or jackie.lay@cnib.ca