The rewards of laughter, play, and learning are immeasurable for every child: friendship, confidence, maturity, personal development.

This concept is the guiding force behind the Summer Fun program at the Saskatchewan Abilities Council where activities and field trips in the community provide children with disabilities with meaningful learning and recreational opportunities.

Parents enroll their children in the Summer Fun program for two important reasons. The activities are tailored to engage participants to their comfort level and it provides a place to interact and have fun with their peers.

"To be a kid and just have fun in an environment that is safe and geared to their unique needs is imperative. We feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to give our child a fun filled summer." – Betty-Jo Merrick-Maddex 

Betty-Jo's 12-year-old daughter Jordan Merrick-Maddex attends the Swift Current Summer Fun program.

The program aims to create new experiences and lasting memories for the participants. The young adults in the Regina Summer Fun program discovered that sometimes the most memorable moments happen when you least expect it. A potluck in the park on a beautiful summer evening spontaneously turned into an outdoor dance celebration. "It was not planned so we made our own fun that night. Anyone who wanted to dance could join in. Nobody was left out," explains Michael Easton, Quality of Life Supervisor.

The Saskatoon Summer Fun participants visited Wanuskewin Heritage Park. The tour program included pottery making and a traditional tipi raising. According to Janine Baumann, Program Manager, "The Wanuskewin instructors were more than willing to adapt the activities to the ability levels of the kids. It was the best learning opportunity of the summer."

The Summer Fun program operates at the Saskatchewan Abilities Council branches in Regina, Saskatoon, Swift Current, and Yorkton.

With the support of Easter Seals Saskatchewan donors, the program enriches the lives of more than 100 individuals with disabilities in Saskatchewan every year.