Kids and Young people

All the milestones every kid goes through – starting school, making friends, homework to name a few – are also all there for kids living with muscular dystrophy or other neuromuscular conditions.

Negotiating the school environment can be challenging when kids start to lose muscle strength. They may need to transition into a wheelchair during this time.

Other transitions include going from primary to high school, transitioning from a manual wheelchair to a power wheelchair, and later, into adulthood and adult services.

There are many engaging activities for kids and young people in the MDNSW community.

Our supports help kids and families through these stages, providing information, support and advice on transition, as well as programs that enrich kids’ lives.

We also provide support coordination for many children, young people and their families as well as an information and referral service. We’re always here with a listening ear and advice in times of transition.

Camps

Our Camps for kids are very popular. These much loved events are scheduled three times a year. Adventure Camp usually takes place in April and Summer Camp in December.

Adventure Camp is open to kids and young people (6-18 years) with a neuromuscular condition who have some level of independent mobility.

Summer Camp is open to kids and young people (6-18 years) with a neuromuscular condition. Activities are age appropriate and cater for all levels of skill and ability.

Snow Camp is open to young people (6-18 years) with a neuromuscular condition who are interested in learning to sit-ski or try supported stand skiing. Those who use a powerchair are welcome to attend.

Why go?

Because it’s the most fun you can have in five days! Make new friends or catch up with old ones. And have a break from Mum and Dad!

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Duke of Edinburgh's Award

This empowering program invites young people aged 14 to 24 to participate in a non-competitive program of self-directed activities.

Whilst the award is well-known, it’s often news to young people with neuromuscular conditions to learn that they too can participate in this challenging and rewarding program.

Why do it?

We’ve found this program helps to unlock potential for many of its participants and often leads to travel, higher education and employment.

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Peer Connect

Peer support activities are a great way for people of all ages to meet, connect and share information, including strategies for living the life they choose. Check out our Peer Connect events to find out more information.

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Support Coordination

Read more about how support coordination can help, especially around times of transition, like going from primary to high school, transitioning from a manual wheelchair to a power wheelchair, and later, into adulthood and adult services.

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The Peer Collective

Check out The Peer Collective for stories and resources on therapies, transport, travel and other topics that might be of interest for kids, young people and their families.

These stories provide wonderful insight on life with a neuromuscular condition, including written articles and videos by fellow kids on topics like how to survive your first year at high school, or bullying and how to get help.

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Also check Families & Carers or Events for info on programs available for family members including parents and siblings.