Down syndrome support expands

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

When Paula Wilburn started the Fun Coast Down Syndrome Association eight years ago, she had a vision to give support and instruction to children and families with Down syndrome. For the last five years, Wilburn has set out to open a learning center for children and parents, but funds have fallen short.

Now, after saving three years of Buddy Walk funds, her dream is becoming a reality.

Camp I Can, a monthly therapeutic learning camp where parents can learn along side their children, held its first session Saturday, Jan. 29, at Palm Coast Praise Church, in a room donated by the church.

“It went extremely well, above and beyond our expectations,” Wilburn said.

The camp hosted six students, ages 2 to 14, instructed by two teachers, a speech therapist, a physical therapist and an occupational therapist — all who specialize in Down syndrome. For now, all teachers are volunteering their time, but Wilburn hopes to be able to pay them in the near future.

“What a lot of people don’t know is that children with Down syndrome learn differently than most people,” Wilburn said. “So to get that kind of teaching in the school system is very difficult. Even though teachers are ESE certified, most haven’t had training that is specific to Down syndrome. We’re trying to supplement that by teaching in that specific way.”

The next camp session will be held Feb. 26. To register, call 447-8034 or e-mail [email protected].

TO SUPPORT THE PROGRAM

FCDS is having a cut-a-thon Sunday, Feb. 6, at the Hair Cuttery, 410 Beach Village Drive, Flagler Beach. Adult haircuts are $15 and children cuts are $10. All the money raised that day will go toward Camp I Can. To donate directly to the fund, send donations to Fun Coast Down Syndrome, 3601 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell, Fla., 32110.