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Editor's Note
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 For a nominal $10 per person, children ages 8-18 with conditions like autism and Down Syndrome can become sailors for the day. These special-needs deckhands will help hoist and trim the sails, pilot the boat and learn about basic navigation. Excursions conclude with each crew member receiving a medal and a commemorative certificate in recognition of their service. The experience of sailing and helping on the boat has many benefits for these sailors. It boosts their self-confidence; fosters social interaction, teamwork and communication; and helps improve motor skills, coordination and concentration. “It’s so quiet and soothing. Sailing calms the kids. They become different people on the boat,” says Saidah. Sailing trips leave locally from Dana Point and Long Beach harbors and last about two hours. Each child must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver, but entire families are welcome to sail and enjoy the bonding experience with one another and the ocean. Water safety is always emphasized, and all sailors under 18 are required to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. For more details or to book a trip, visit heartofsailing.org or call 866.368.5350 or 812.935.SAIL (7245). Amy Bentley is a contributing writer. Editor’s Pick Speaking of sailing ... want to do something unforgettable this summer? Take the kids on the Disney Cruise – right here on the West Coast! The Disney Magic normally sails out of Florida, but for a limited time through August, the Disney Magic sails out of the Port of Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, saving you LOTS of dollars in airfare. Wouldn’t you rather walk on water this summer than pump expensive gas into your car? Staterooms are still available. Call 888.DCL.2500 and tell them OC Family sent you! |
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RSS SubscribeReaders Feedback:
We sailed with George and his crew earlier in the year and had a wonderful time. My (autistic) daughter had her first sailing lesson and talked about it all week. The next day she went in front of her classroom to share her experience with her class and spoke with enthusiasm and excitement. George put such a smile on her face and gave her such confidence we will never forget that day and look forward to him returning to Long Beach.
| Comment at 7/20/2008 |
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