Summer should be a time of joy, exploration, and growth for all children, a season filled with opportunities to create lifelong memories. However, for too many families, this season brings an added challenge: the struggle to find summer programmes that welcome and accommodate children with special needs.

As a community, we must do better.

We must ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has access to the enriching experiences that define a fulfilling childhood. Inclusion must not be an afterthought; it must be a priority in the planning and execution of summer camps, school break camps, and other youth programmes.

At present, many parents of children with special needs find themselves navigating a fragmented system, desperately seeking options for their children not only during the summer months but also leading up to September and throughout school breaks. Too often, they encounter camps that are unequipped, staff that lack necessary training, and, in many cases, outright rejection when attempting to enrol their child.

Children with special needs deserve the same opportunities to learn, play, and thrive as every other child. When we embrace inclusion, all children benefit.

Today, I am calling on all camp organisers to consider how they can make their programmes more inclusive. If you are an educator, therapist, or someone trained in supporting children with special needs, I encourage you to explore ways you can contribute your expertise to making these camps a success.

Help is available. The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors is eager to collaborate with interested organisations to provide training and guidelines that will equip staff with the necessary skills to foster inclusive environments. With the right preparation, resources, and mindset, we can break down barriers and open doors of opportunity for every child.

We all have a role to play, families, educators, businesses, and community leaders. Let us come together to ensure that every child in Bermuda has a summer filled with adventure, learning, and joy. When we uplift our children, we uplift our entire community.

Let’s make inclusion the standard. Our children deserve nothing less.

If you are interested in organising an inclusive summer camp or youth programme, please book an appointment directly with MSME Officers at Book An Appointment.