“KiDS” Camp, June 13th-17th, 2022, is a half-day performing arts camp program developed specifically for children ages 10-14 on the autism spectrum and/or with a cognitive or developmental disability.
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As part of its mission to make the performing arts more accessible and inclusive, the Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts has announced the addition of a new program to an already robust roster of Summer Camp sessions. “Kids with Disabilities in the Spotlight”, or “KiDS” Camp for short, is a new summer camp session developed specifically for children ages 10-14 on the autism spectrum and/or with a cognitive or developmental disability.
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The camp session is June 13th-17th, 2022 from 9:00 am-12:00 pm and will focus on enriching performance activities designed to build confidence, positive social interactions and communication skills in a safe and supportive environment.
“KiDS” Camp will be led by Amanda Mooney, M. Ed., a special education teacher at St. Ann Catholic School who has been teaching children with special needs for over 20 years. Amanda is also a familiar face in the Charlotte Theatre Community and a regular performer on the Matthew’s Playhouse stage. She recently played Starfish, the lovable character in Rainbow Fish The Musical at Matthew's Playhouse, and has also appeared as The Blue Fairy in the 2020 production of Pinocchio.
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Multiple studies have linked theatre education to stronger communication skills, ability to follow directions, teamwork, organization and meaningful social interactions. “It’s important that children and teens with special needs have more representation and opportunities to shine in the performing arts,” says Mooney. “‘KiDS’ camp is a wonderful opportunity to explore the theater arts while strengthening social skills. We will incorporate theater games, props, music, and movement to help campers make friends, build confidence, express emotions, and use their imagination”.
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The camp session will be limited in size in order to provide each child the attention and instruction they require in order to succeed. To learn more about “KiDS” Camp, please visit https://www.matthewsplayhouse.com/kidscamp. Interested parents with questions can also reach out directly at amooney@matthewsplayhouse.com.
