Virgin Islands Autism Centre Empowers Children with Transitional Summer Camp Program

The Virgin Islands Autism Centre recently concluded its transitional summer camp program, aimed at providing support and a smooth transition for children with autism and other developmental disabilities.

The camp, which ran from July 4 to 28, was designed to introduce children assigned to the Therapeutic Kindergarten classroom to a similar routine they would experience in September 2023. Crystal Estridge, Director for the Autism Centre, explained that the camp mimicked a typical school day, including morning and afternoon snacks, lunch, and rest time. This structure was implemented to ease the transition into the Therapeutic Kindergarten classroom.

The program also incorporated sensory and tactile activities, as well as outdoor exposure and pet therapy, to aid in generalization and overall development. The centre is dedicated to providing mechanisms for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities to enhance their cognitive and motor skills during the early intervention stage. The goal is to prepare them for integration into the formal school system with the necessary abilities and readiness, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

While the centre typically offers camps during holiday seasons, this specific program focused on assisting clients with their transition. Miss Estridge expressed satisfaction with the success of this year’s camp in helping the children and expressed hopes for expanding the program next year with a greater variety of activities. She mentioned plans for more excursions, allowing the children to experience a wider range of activities and exposure.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to improving the health and social well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands. The transitional summer camp program at the Virgin Islands Autism Centre exemplifies this commitment, providing invaluable support and resources to children with autism and developmental disabilities.