Particular Family
(Summer 2004)

A seaside summer camp for children with special needs and their parents, part of a larger set of activities focused on the rehabilitation and socialization of mentally retarded children in Petrozavodsk. The camp provided 18 young people with an opportunity for social interaction and offered their parents a chance to make contact with each other and to find support and advice. Spending relaxed time together also helps strengthen the relationship between the parents and mentally retarded children and makes the youth feel more supported and loved by the adults. Many of the children also suffer from respiratory illnesses, such as tuberculosis, or have somatic problems so the warmer climate and sea air at the camp helps improve their health.

During the camp, the children cleaned their rooms, took care of themselves, and helped the adults cook the meals. These activities helped them acquire important life skills and develop their social abilities. Excursions were made to local museums and games and contests were organized during the stay. Many of the children were leaving their neighborhoods for the first time in their lives so even these simple experiences were very challenging and rewarding for them.

Analyses of the project showed that the camp helped the parents improve their relationship with their own children. The children became more open; they learned to communicate in a more effective way with both their peers and adults.