Why is inclusion important in today’s society? What can we teach youngsters in an informal-education environment today that will impact their tomorrow? Shutaf camp programs started off with an unusual mix of kids right from the start; a wide age range, different types of developmental issues and a mix of cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds. Kids with special needs represented the majority group with typical children making up the minority. Our staff noted that this unusual mix had a positive social effect on all the participants.
This innovative inclusion model has been developed and refined at Shutaf’s year-round programs, becoming a replicable model for teaching community caring and inclusive living to children and teens.
Openness to all members of society is also a core concern. In the coming year, Shutaf will reach out to Arab children with special needs, including them with the proper staff support at Shutaf camp programs. This will be an important development in providing necessary services and breaking down barriers for all children.
