News and Notes from The Johnson Center
GrapeUp! Come Together! - Why is The Johnson Center hosting inclusive recreational events?
JCCHD | Mon, July 27, 2015 |It has been said that prejudice rarely survives experience. Once we come together and see people as they are—interesting, flawed, funny, curious, intriguing, smart, challenged, strong, human—then we are able to see the characteristics we share, we aspire to have, we complement, we can learn from, and we can support.
This is the premise behind the “Grape Up! Come Together!” events, hosted by The Johnson Center for Child Health and Development.
All children benefit from inclusion. There are numerous studies that support this—not just children with special needs, but everyone. Including people of all abilities, backgrounds, and experiences is how we expand our own perspectives and learn to engage and appreciate people who have experiences different from our own. And that is how we build strong, compassionate, engaged communities.
At “Grape Up!” events everyone is invited, everyone belongs, and everyone benefits. Our staff, volunteers, and special guests work hard to ensure every child who attends has fun, is included, and is recognized for the gifts they bring to the gathering. Accommodations are provided to make certain that this takes place. These include sign language interpreters, Spanish-language interpreters, visual schedules, accessible spaces, low child-to-staff/volunteer ratios to ensure assistance is available, and prepared modifications for games or crafts.
For children who do not need these accommodations, the benefits are simple: they have a fun time, make new friends, and learn to appreciate diversity. Understanding and respect are at the core of any opportunity for children of differing abilities and cultures to learn and have fun together.
So bring your children and join a compassionate bunch at “Grape Up! Come Together!” Because what could be better than kids having fun while playing and learning together?
