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Cool Communicators Camps 2010

Summer Programs for BC Students Using AAC Technologies

The Easter Seals Camping Program and Special Education Technology - British Columbia (SET- BC) are pleased to announce integrated camps for communication device users again this summer. Camps will be offered at Shawnigan (Vancouver Island), Squamish (West Coast) and Winfield (Okanagan). These overnight camp programs will be held at:

• Camp Shawnigan from July 3rd to July 9th         Kids-Adolescents Mixed Abilities (6-15)
• Camp Winfield from July 24th to July 29th           Kids-Adolescents Mixed Abilities (6-15)
• Camp Squamish from August 3rd to August 8th   Kids- Mental and Physical Disabilities (6-12).

(Early registration is strongly recommended. Please go to the Easter Seals Web site for additional information and application forms)

The program

Cool Communicators’ Camps have a unique focus on using augmentative communication and technology skills in a recreational camp atmosphere. Campers will have a chance to connect with old and new friends, learn and practice communication strategies using their voice output communication aids, and enjoy activities from arts and crafts to outdoor recreation and games.  Each Cool Communicator will come with a targeted communication goal for the week.  

The staff

Camp staff will provide a full program of recreational activities, as well as 24-hour care and supervision for the campers. SET-BC will coordinate a team of speech language pathologists and technical specialists to target communication strategies and support the campers' communication in all camp events.

Who should attend Cool Communicators?

This camp is designed for campers who:

• have augmentative communication needs and use voice output communication aids
• have an interest in using their communication technology to interact with peers

Information for school district and community agency staff

Please help us identify students who might benefit from and enjoy the Cool Communicator experience. You can do this in two ways:

Let us know the names of potential campers, so that we can follow up and ensure that all interested students and families have a chance to register for this program. You can do this by phoning or emailing Mike Sheane at SET-BC. Phone: 604 269-2230 or email @ msheane@setbc.org.

Registration information for parents

1. Applications and all other forms and surveys are available on the Easter Seals Camps Website , http://www.eastersealscamps.ca/cool-communicators-camp , as of  April 6, 2010.
2. Applications must be filled out in full before a space is held for your camper.  The application includes a medical form that must be signed by a physician.  You might want to book a physician's appointment now for the beginning of April so this form can be completed.
   
3. If your camper comes to camp with a Personal Support Worker, their application must be included with the camper application form. If you need support finding a Personal Support Worker, please get in touch with camp@lionsbc.ca as soon as possible. The PSW application form must include a Criminal Record Check that includes a Vulnerable Sector Check from the local police department.  
4. Cool Communicators must submit a "Communication Survey" with their registration.  This information will help the Speech Language Pathologist Support Teams best prepare for your campers time at camp.

We are very much looking forward to seeing your registration!!  If you have any questions along the way, please feel free to get in touch with our Camp Registrar - Jennifer Blair - at campregistration@lionsbc.ca, or by calling 1-800-818-4483.