Summer days and the summit for adolescent siblings

March 7, 2016

It has been a big start to the year for our adolescent siblings, with a Summer Festival Day followed by a weekend away at The Summit campsite in Gippsland.

It was a slippery slope to fun in the sun with an inflatable waterslide being the highlight of the Summer Festival Day at Very Special Kids in January. The day was enjoyed by 25 young people with activities including DJ Benny B spinning tunes and a photo booth where memories were captured of their time shared together. A massive thank you goes out to our seven awesome volunteers and to Grill’d in Malvern for providing burgers and chips to our hungry teens.

The Adolescent Sibling Weekend in March was enjoyed by 31 siblings, with each person discovering their inner courage and capacity to support one another during a full day of adventure activities. Comfort zones were pushed as the teenagers tackled the flying fox, abseiling wall and the foam pit, before spending a relaxing evening together in front of the campfire toasting marshmallows and reflecting on everything they had achieved.

“It is hard to put into words the magic that happens on camp and the powerful connection that develops between so many of these young people experiencing similar things. Here are some reflections from participants who were asked to describe what camp means to them.”

“Adolescent camp is a chance for a group of kids who have something in common to get away together. We push our comfort zones and learn about who we are. It’s an amazing experience.”

“Camp for me is somewhere I can be myself and get away from my problems. I can meet new people and reunite with old friends. This experience is so fun and memorable.”

“Finally I can go to a place where not all the attention is on my sister. A place where I can meet new friends who actually understand what happens at home.”

“Camp means getting away from your problems and being transported into a life where everyone understands and relates to your current situation.”