Exploring the arts as a transformative tool for individuals with special needs, and the communities that support them.
The Growing Place
About
The Growing Place
Our Philosophy
“Exploring the arts as a transformative tool for individuals with special needs, and the communities that support them.”
As an advocate for individuals with special needs, I have always been interested in how I could use my love of performing arts to create a more supportive and inclusive community for all of its members. Historically and socially, there have always been a limited opportunities for children with autism, sensory needs, and other disabilities to fully engage in performing arts as both viewers and participants.
One of the largest breakthroughs for individuals with special needs in the theatre came in the form of the 2011 Autism Theatre Initiative by the Theatre Development Fund.This initiative focused on how to create accessible theatre programs for all performers. This camp was inspired by the efforts of this development. Our camp curriculum focuses on how to support children with special needs through the outlets of music, theatre, and dance.
The Growing Place was created by referencing several scholarly and scientifically based books, journals, articles, and educational practices that analyze the benefits of arts integration and education. These documents were read, analyzed, and implemented with great care in order to maximize our campers's eperiences at our facilities. More and more research is accumulating that proves the need and benefits of individuals with disabilties engaging in performing and fine arts. For more information about the resources used while creating our camp philosiphy and curriculum, please visit our Parent Resource Page.
This camp is a place that fosters emotional and interpersonal growth within the children who attend, and more importantly a place that encourages growth and acceptance of individuals with special needs within the inclusive communities who support them. It is because of this ideology that I chose to title this camp, The Growing Place. It is my hope that every child and family that is a part of this camp will leave feeling more empowered, passionate, and included in the community. Welcome to The Growing Place, we are so excited to change our world with you!
-Chelsea Merritt, Camp Founder
The Growing Place
Plymouth, NH
03264
1-800-000-0000
Artistic Director and Director of Programs Chelsea Merritt is a singer/actor who earned her Bachelors of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies at Plymouth State University. Her program of study, titled Performing Arts for Special Needs, emphasizes how to service children with special needs through the outlets of music, theatre, and dance. Chelsea is passionate about exploring the arts as a transformative tool for individuals with special needs, and the communities that support them.
Music Director and Camp Counselor Christopher Alberi is a saxophonist who earned his Bachelors of Science in Music Education from Plymouth State University. Christopher has received special education training from some of Plymouth's most experienced special educators, and is passionate about sharing music with all students.
Acting Director and Camp Counselor Olivia Opal is singer/actor who earned her Bachelors Degree in Theatre Arts from Plymouth State University. Olivia has performed in several children's theatre productions in New Hampshire, and has 5+ years of experience working as a camp counselor in both NH and Massachusetts.
Our Staff
& Directors
