MEHOOPANY, Pa. — Recently, a group of children from Mehoopany embarked on an educational journey right in their own backyard. Organized by Northeast Sight Services and its collaborators, the excursion aimed to provide enriching experiences for blind and visually impaired children across northeastern Pennsylvania.
“We bring children together monthly to engage in various activities,” explained Sara Peperno, president and CEO of Northeast Sight Services, highlighting the organization’s commitment to inclusive learning opportunities.
For the next two weeks, these children are participating in Camp Sight, an initiative designed to offer them activities typically enjoyed by their sighted peers.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for these kids to explore activities they might not otherwise have access to,” Peperno added.
One of the highlights of their recent sessions was a lesson on plants at Creekside Gardens near Tunkhannock. Here, the children learned firsthand about plants with diverse textures and aromas.
“Plants may differ in perception but offer benefits to everyone, regardless of how they experience them,” remarked Sherri Kukuchka from Creekside Gardens, reflecting on the sensory nature of the activity.
Following this educational tour, the children had the chance to pot their own plants, taking their sensory exploration to a practical level. Kukuchka, accustomed to day camp dynamics, found guiding these children through the experience to be both challenging and rewarding.
“Considering textures, scents—it was a thought-provoking process tailored for this project,” she shared.
The children, thoroughly engaged, reflected positively on their experiences, with 12-year-old Bandar Alnasloukh expressing his delight in choosing elements for his plant.
“I enjoyed the feel of the plant, the pods, and selected colors based on their designs. The shiny gems resembled metal, which caught my eye,” Bandar remarked enthusiastically.
Beyond the fun and learning for the children, organizers emphasized the broader community impact of such activities.
“These events showcase the capabilities of these children and encourage community members to consider how to make their programs more accessible,” Peperno emphasized.
After the planting session, the children enjoyed an olfactory and textural lesson featuring barbecue and macaroni and cheese.
This summer camp experience not only provided educational insights but also fostered inclusivity and understanding among participants. As the days unfold, these children continue to discover and appreciate the natural world, guided by a community dedicated to their holistic development.
