Winter break is not only a pause from school lessons, but also a time for winter relaxation, which is of great importance for children. This year, the team at HKF Child Development Support Center in Wrocław a special offer of therapeutic activities for children with various difficulties. One of the children benefiting from the activities during the Therapeutic Camp was Amelka, a ward of the Hemmersbach Kids’ Family Foundation. Check out how she spent her time during sessions and why this form of developmental support is an excellent solution for those in need of assistance.
Comprehensive Therapeutic Support
The HKF Child Development Support Center in Wrocław is a unique place where specialists provide professional therapeutic and psychological support for children and teenagers, including those in foster care. In addition to extensive diagnostics and therapy, activities are organized during vacation and winter breaks. Drawing from their experience working with children with diverse needs who face numerous challenges, special sessions for children with developmental difficulties were held during the first week of the winter holidays.
The Therapeutic Camp is an intensive support program tailored to the individual needs of participants. During the activities, children participated in Biofeedback, Sensory Integration, Snoezelen therapy, Speech Therapy, Social Skills Training, Neuroflow, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Hand Therapy, and Physiotherapy. Addressing multiple areas helped children better manage their emotions, stress, and process stimuli. The activities also allowed them to establish social relationships in a safe environment. In addition to therapy, there were also relaxation, sensory, and psychological-pedagogical activities that allowed for a pleasant and creative time. Children mainly participated in individual sessions but also had the opportunity to work in small groups under the supervision of psychologists and therapists.
Support for Amelka's Development
Amelka is a joyful six-year-old girl with a significant health burden. She suffers from FASD, is intellectually disabled, and has severe damage to her optic nerve. Additionally, she struggles with many co-occurring defects and diseases. She is a perfect example of how appropriately chosen therapy and the love of an adoptive family can lead to progress in a child’s development. Here is her story: https://kids-family.org/amelka-a-dancer-with-an-enormous-will-to-live/?lang=en
For Amelka – a ward of the Hemmersbach Kids’ Family Foundation – the Therapeutic Camp was not only intense therapy but also an unforgettable time at the HKF Center in Wrocław. The participation of a Hemmersbach Kids’ Family ward in the session during the winter break was fully funded by the HKF Foundation.
The activities at the HKF Center were tailored to Amelka’s needs and difficulties. Every day, she was greeted by colorful spaces, a smiling team of therapists, and a carefully developed activity program.
How did our ward feel during the Therapeutic Camp? “Amelka primarily left therapy calm. This is a new experience for us because before coming to the HKF Center, she would react with screaming and anxiety during therapy. She gained new skills, most notably learning not to take off her glasses. After the Therapeutic Camp, we noticed many small changes that represent significant steps for us. It turns out that a child can leave a session happy, can have fun, and the effects are visible,” says Mrs. Ola, Amelka’s adoptive mother.
Amelka particularly enjoyed the magical spaces of Snoezelen Room. The colorful lights, water bed, soft sounds, ball pool, and all the therapeutic Snoezelen activities had an excellent effect on her.
A Dedicated Team of Therapists
What distinguishes the Therapeutic Camp is not only the holistic approach to participants but also the dedicated specialists. Working in an interdisciplinary team allows for effective action in various areas, providing the opportunity to develop new skills. This approach, combining professionalism with personal involvement, provides a sense of safety and trust, which undoubtedly positively influences the effectiveness of the activities. Mrs. Ola also noticed this aspect: “We were delighted with all the care and attention from every side. I am impressed by the way the HKF Center team put their heart into working with Amelka and other children. It was real teamwork. The most important thing for me was the feedback I received from the therapist every day.”
These five days at the HKF Center were an unforgettable time for Amelka. It was not only therapy but also joyful moments in a safe and supportive atmosphere. The Therapeutic Camp not only positively influenced the development of the Hemmersbach Kids’ Family Foundation ward but also made the winter break an extraordinary adventure for her.
