Jean Darnell, Director Capable Kids and Families

CKF Staff (From Left) Anna, Beth, Mary, Jean, Matt, and Valerie

This year has been amazing for Capable Kids and Families. We have seen some of the children in the program accomplish incredible feats, parents become fearless advocates, and the program itself gain more prominence in the field of disabilities.

My favorite story is about a 5-year-old boy, with cerebral palsy. One Friday afternoon, his grandmother stopped by the office to discuss his difficulties with sitting upright. As we talked, she shared the many different methods the family had tried to help with sitting. Capable Kids staff decided to send a Straddle Sitter home with her. Around 8:30 a.m. Monday morning, Grandma called to report that the Straddle Sitter was perfect. Through her tears, she shared that her grandson sat up to take part in family activities for the first time in his life that weekend. She told us the entire family wept tears of joy when he sat up to play a game with them. His grandmother stated that he had not stopped smiling since they put him in the Straddle Sitter.

Another event that stands out in my memory of this year was the night Erika Westenberg brought her incredible musical talent to share with Capable Kids. The room was filled with children dancing; in whatever manner they were able, singing, and playing their own musical instruments. Who knew that nursery rhymes played on a violin could inspire such delight?

Family Support

Mom Shares a Book with her Son

CKF provided support and equipment to 92 children in 2009. Family Support provides home visitation, support group meetings, activities, and a therapy equipment loan program to families of children with disabilities and developmental delays.

73% of families reported that the equipment loan program has reduced the financial impact of having a child with a disability.
86% reported a decrease in their feelings of isolation.
100% reported improvement in their child’s development
100% of therapists reported that CKF supports a child’s developmental progress or improves a child’s quality of life.

One family wrote the following note to Capable Kids: Thank you so much for everything you have done for my child. You have been a place of support when I needed it most. This has been a difficult journey but you have made it a little easier and brighter.

Fun at Family Fun Day

Friendship Circles

55 children took part in Friendship Circles this past school year. Friendship Circles take place at elementary schools where the school counselor identifies a child with a disability who might need help with friendship-making skills.

100% of school counselors reported that Circles are beneficial to the students and increase their interactions with peers. One counselor commented, “The students love to attend Circles and look forward to their meetings.”

Physical Education for All Kids (PEAK)

Physical Education for All Kids (PEAK) is implemented in eight area schools. Approximately 2,500 students have been impacted. 100% of PE teachers surveyed reported that PEAK has increased the participation of children with disabilities in their classes.