Sensory Friendly events across Delmarva for Autistic children
Surfer's Healing & Sensory Friendly Bowling
DELMARVA – According to the Autism Research Institute, Autism is a developmental disorder that is usually noticed by the time a child is three. Formally known as autism spectrum disorder, which means each person experiences their own strengths and challenges.
Some individuals may have little to no eye contact or are not able to form facial expressions. Others have trouble breaking away from tasks or constantly repeating gestures or sounds. There aren’t any biological markers for the disorder, so clinicians use observation or the client’s medical history to diagnose.
Surfer’s Healing
MARYLAND – Local beachgoers are catching some rays while making waves. In Ocean City, the 14th annual Surfer’s Healing Camp was held along the coast. Organizers say the camp is a unique opportunity for children with autism to experience the therapeutic benefits of surfing. Surfers Healing was founded in 1996 by Izzy Paskowitz, inspired by the calming effect surfing had on his son with autism, and now, it’s a program that’s now offered all across the country.
The kids in attendance were proof you have to be brave to ride the waves, and it’s clear that Nothing can keep these kids’ “tide” down! Pro Surfer Cody Young has worked with the organization for over a decade now. “It’s no greater happiness that you’ll find from taking people surfing than these kids.”
He says while there were many activities for kids to enjoy who didn’t get in the water, for those who did, it was definitely worth it. “I kind of realized that my soul purpose in life was to share that love with other people… Yeah, it’s super fun, definitely really fun. Definitely not easy, it can be- it’ can be really difficult, it takes someone who’s pretty much been surfing their whole lives in order to be able to stand up on a board with another person and control it.”
Over 200 families were in attendance with children who varied on the autistic spectrum and while some kids where anxious to get in the water, others needed a bit more guidance. Cody, however, was up for the challenge, “You’ll go out sometimes, you’ll get some kids that are so scared, maybe they don’t even want to go out. But you just go out with them, you just catch a couple of waves, and they instantly just have the biggest smiles on their face.”
The camp’s mission has been: “every child deserves their moment in the sun.” Mother and caretaker Anita Vincent said her child Casey deserves every bit of happiness. “We have really enjoyed the family environment, the atmosphere here, all the vendors come, they give us resources and information. but it’s such a beautiful event to make families feel included.”
19-year-old Casey was diagnosed with autism at the age of 5. And after 3 years of attending, he knew having fun would be a “Shore Thing”. When asked why he likes coming out to Surfer’s Healing, he said, “Because I want to see my friends!” And when asked how it feels to be out on the water, he gave an honest answer, “Cold.”
Co-organizer Woody German said this event couldn’t have been possible without all of the sponsors and volunteers, and they want to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved. He says next year will be even better, and if you wish to donate or to sign your child up for next year, visit their Facebook page.
Autism Delaware
DELAWARE – Speaking of autism, that’s not all Delmarva has to offer when it comes to sensory friendly programs. Autism Delaware, a statewide non-profit that provides resources to the community, is providing social recreational programs for all ages.
Director of Development Dan Getman says at their Sensory Bowling nights in both Sussex and Kent County, they cut off flashing lights and turn down music so kids can have the best experience. The goal is for parents to have a “break”, and they have safe spaces where their child can freely play without it causing a distraction.
Getman says it can be difficult to take a child out who has autism, and he says these events provide safe spaces. “Some of the stigma surrounding Autism you know, involves, ‘Oh the kids are going to meltdown, they’re going to scream, they’re going to fight, they’re going to throw a tantrum, they can’t be controlled,’ things like this. And you know what, sometimes that is true, but that’s true on every child. So, our job is if those things happen, they’re in a place where they’re not going to be judged for it.”
Sensory Bowling will happen August 19th in Sussex County at Millsboro Lanes. They have many ongoing events and for more information, visit their website.
