Kids

KIDS was established in 1970 by John Mulcahy, a teacher who became concerned about the development of a Disabled child in one of his classes. John wanted to improve communication with this child and sought guidance from the child's mother. This in turn established the KIDS ethos of working in partnership with parent and carers to enable Disabled children and young people to develop their skills and abilities and to fulfil their potential, hopes and aspirations.

In 2003, KIDS merged with KIDSACTIVE, previously known as the Handicapped Adventure Play Association. KIDSACTIVE was founded in 1966 by Lady Allen of Hurtwood, one of the pioneers in the field of adventure play who believed that Disabled children had the right to adventurous play.

KIDS is a charity which in its 38 years has pioneered a number of approaches and programmes for Disabled children and young people. These include Home Learning (Portage), Parent Partnerships, Adventure Playgrounds and the inclusion of Disabled children in mainstream settings. KIDS wishes to build on this history to meet the needs and aspirations of a new generation of Disabled children and young people and their families. In doing this KIDS will become one of the leading charities in developing both the thinking and services that create an inclusive world for Disabled children, young people and their families.

Direct work with Disabled children
This includes Home Learning (Portage) services for very young Disabled children, specialist nurseries and crèches, integrated support within Children's Centres, short breaks for Disabled children both community based and residential, playgrounds and play schemes.

Direct work with Disabled young people
This includes specialist youth groups (including drama), short breaks for Disabled young people both community based and residential, transition support and our national Youth Inclusion Network.

Support for Parents of Disabled children and young people
This includes Parent Partnerships, parent forums, training for parents (e.g. Makaton), Key Working, and our London SEN Mediation Service

Support for Siblings of Disabled children and young carers
This includes siblings groups, Young Carers groups and the inclusion of siblings in KIDS playgrounds

Training & Guidance for professionals working inclusively with Disabled children and young people
This includes our Playwork Inclusion Project, our West Midlands Inclusion Development Service, our our Young People's Inclusion Guidance, publications, our National Training Department and our partnerships with bodies such as Play England and National Association of Family Information Services.

Visit Their Website: Kids to see how you can help and support this worthwhile cause.

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Childcare