Inclusion and Participation Program
The Inclusion and Participation Program is an initiative which aims to respond to client and family interests for more meaningful activities in the community for children with special needs to participate in.
Supporting children with special needs in the community
Therapy Focus' Inclusion and Participation Team provides direct support for children to be better supported and involved in community activities.
The Inclusion and participation Team achieve this by:
- Providing support to local clubs, associations and recreation centres
- Supporting children participating in existing community activities and groups
- Implementing group activities located in the community
- Providing inclusive opportunities for all children
The program complements existing therapy services with the key objective of increasing opportunities for our clients to better participate and socialise in the community.
Available group activities
A range of programs and initiatives run in collaboration with external organisations, and solely by the Inclusion and Participation Team, are available to Therapy Focus clients for participation. These groups aid development, particularly sporting and social skills, and provide opportunities for inclusion and participation in the community.
- Multi-Sports Groups
These groups allow children to try a variety of different sports over several weeks at community recreation centres. Running once a week for 5 weeks each term, sports include tennis, basketball, soccer, gymnastics and ten pin bowling. Children not only improve their physical health by being active, they enhance coordination and communication skills. At the conclusion of the group, children who enjoy a particular sport are supported by an Inclusion Support Officer to access mainstream or all ability sporting opportunities.
- Wii-tech Social Groups
Wii Groups are run for children to enjoy playing computer games amongst their peers in a social setting. Wii groups facilitate the development of turn taking, cooperation, and coordination and in a fun, gaming environment.
- Swimming Groups
Held for 5 weeks each term at community swimming centres, this program offers swimming lessons to children of all abilities, from beginners to level 4 swimmers, with children placed in a small group of similar level swimming ability. Children improve their water confidence, swimming technique and endurance, with assistance provided to transition into mainstream classes at the conclusion of the groups.
- City Cycle Club
Meeting one Sunday each month, Therapy focus clients, their family, siblings and friends come together for a fun and social bike ride along the South Perth foreshore. This club is a great way for children to work on their bike riding skills, keep fit and healthy and make new friends.
Check out the calendar on our What's On page to find available groups and register your child.
Individual Referrals
Are you looking for a community group or activity for your child to participate in? Don’t know where to look or where to begin? Whether it be karate, cooking or art, the Inclusion and Participation Team are here to help you address your child’s interests and find a group they really enjoy.
Contact our Inclusion and Participation Program Coordinator, Celine Windsor, on 9478 9500, or email celine.windsor@therapyfocus.org.au