Think back to when you were a kid, and it was summer vacation, what kind of things did you love to do? Run through the sprinklers….go swimming…..climb trees….ride your bike through the neighborhood….eat messy popsicles?
One of my fondest childhood memories is camp. I adored camp. I think every kid should go and experience the wonder of nature, and make new friends and just have a great time.
What about the child who has CFIDS…I have heard that there are some out there, what are their options? I suppose if there is an adequate staff of nurses and doctors, sleep away camp is an option, provided that they are able to rest when they need to. I don’t recall my camps having nap time…..but I may be remembering them wrong.
Certainly, day camp is an option. It allows the child to leave the house for an afternoon and go on an outing with other kids. This is a great way to make new friends….and to be able to come home and talk about the adventures of the day. As long as they are feeling good, why not sign them up for a few weeks of these day camps. You can usually find good ones by asking at your local Y, or Boys and Girls Clubs.
I came across this article written by Jennifer Rozines, Katie Foran and Beth Warren, in CFIDS.org from 1997. I think its a fantastic idea. Its called Pajama Party Plus, and its a weekend camp for young persons with CFIDS.
Here is what Jennifer had to say about that weekend:
The weekend went phenomenally well, with art therapy, crafts, journaling, yoga and role plays. We planned activities to spread awareness, we supported and encouraged one another, and we rested and napped. It all ended too quickly, and soon after, I began planning Pajama Party Plus II, tentatively scheduled for spring break, with the addition of writing workshops and music.
There is no reason why these weekend camps can’t be changed so younger kids could participate. It gives the kids something to look forward to and something to enjoy, while giving the parents a bit of a break.
Its certainly an option worth considering.
**oh yeah, i forgot to mention that today is theme day over at b5media health and science blogs. Today’s theme is about children.
Jennie,
if you are planning something let me know….i would totally want to get involved in something like that.
i love that my ideas are sparking yours….what a great feeling.
laura
[...] Laura at CFS Squared writes different options for camp (day camp; a special weekend camp for children with CFS) at Camp CFIDS. [...]
Fantastic post Laura! This is such a good idea, to create a program for kids with CFIDS. I am filing this away in my brain, and will stay alert to opportunities for it. – Jennie