The Max Life

"GROUP READY"

The new hidden discrimination word is "Group Ready."

If you have a child with extensive needs and requires support, camps don't want them.

So we tell caregivers that they need to find social opportunities for their children because it's great for their mental health and overall social emotional well being, but we don't want to make room for those who need this the most.

It's ironic how the most in need of social comminity connection are the LEAST to have access to it.

I say this with all sincerity to anyone running a camp especially those who claim to be inclusive-
You are a fake, a con, and not worthy of these children and youth in need. Especially those camps and city run programs that are receiving funding as part of their "accessibility and inclusion" plans to tick off their legal requirements.

And to the camps that put Christian teachings and values as part of their camp experience- you are the worst of all. Stop advertising how amazing you are because you "take these individuals," and put palatable photos of children with disabilities on your websites to show the world your amazing willingness to care.

I used to believe that I was so fortunate to have a camp to take Max because he had no where else to go. I now feel sick to my stomach over it. The few weeks were great. But I nor Max should have ever felt like it was privilege to attend. Those spots should have been open all summer long with support so Max could could learn.

I can no problem pay for 8 weeks of camp. When it comes to needing 1:1 support I am told he can only attend one week due to the high needs of so many wanting to attend.
So this isn't about money or funding.

It's not discrimination. It's an abomination.

Those camps that use the word "must be group ready, cannot accommodate personal supports needs, eloping, or any form of behavioural support," will still put "inclusive camp" in their titles.

No one wants these kids.
Not even paid to help them.
Not even with extensive extra payment.

How can anyone be "group ready" if they never have a chance to work with or simply be with others?

Imagine welcoming someone even when they cannot "contribute" or need support?

So let's exclude them nicely.

Let's say we will put them on a "wait list" that they can't see or know about and never get back to them, their parents won't have respite, and their child will regress and know nothing but seclusion. By the time we wait and see, the summer will be over and they won't try again because the process was just too hard.

100 million.
That's all I need to build the center for all abilities.

Let me know if you're interested.

In the meantime-
Me and Max will be having our own camp.

Sit with this sentence for a minute:
Accomodations and acceptance are NOT generosity.

Do you know someone who is looking for a summer position to teach children, youth, and adults of all abilities to swim? 🏊‍♀️🐬
Someone who is passionate about inclusion, accessibility, and aquatic engagement? ♿️
Someone who believes everyone belongs in aquatic environments and is committed to learning more about neurodiverse affirming practices?♾️

Let's meet! 👋

Contact Splash Aquatics Inc. to join a thriving swim learning school that believes in giving everyone access to aquatic environments for physical and mental health well being, as well as social and community engagement!

Splash Aquatics is a committed inclusive company dedicated to breaking down employment barriers for Autistic and neurodivergent individuals and can offer both paid and volunteer positions to start.
Info to apply below👇

Now serving Milton, Mississauga, and Brampton:

🐟Private backyard sessions.
🐠In home lessons AND at
We Rock The Spectrum - Brampton
ErinoakKids

Swimmingly Yours, 🏖

The Splash Aquatics Team.