A Mother’s Love for Spiral Garden
“I want to live in Spiral Garden. I want to build a humungous tree fort so that I never have to leave!”
The Daphne Cockwell Spiral Garden is Rehan’s favourite place in the whole world. When he’s not busy creating works of art or playing musical instruments, he’s gardening until his heart’s content!
Spiral Garden is an innovative outdoor art, play, and music garden, a place where kids can have fun, alongside the support of friendly staff. As a centerpiece of the Holland Bloorview community, it is a place where many children and families find respite from their daily routine by finding joy in nature and creativity.
During the summer months Spiral Garden is also an integrated summer camp open to children with and without disabilities, from ages 5-21. The program activities, staffing model, and site are designed for inclusive play. It’s a space where everyone can participate fully, while also being provided any extra support they might need.
Rehan has cerebral palsy and has been visiting Holland Bloorview since he was just two years old. His mother Arpita shared that during his first visit to Spiral Garden her son was quite shy, but it wasn’t long until he was asking his mom to return to the magical place.
“Over the past several years, Rehan has benefited immensely from the excellent care he’s received [at Holland Bloorview], including occupational therapy, physical therapy, and so much more. But it’s Spiral Garden that has brought the most confidence and joy into my little boy’s life. He calls it his “enchanted place,” and I couldn’t agree more,” shared Arpita.
The garden is also an empowering place for kids with disabilities. Like so many of Holland Bloorviews’ programs, there is an intentional focus on independence and self-determination. Kids get to choose from a range of activities including: baking, painting, gardening, and socializing, to name a few.
Arpita loves Spiral Garden because it gives her son and the other children “a sense of control they often lack in the rest of their lives. It’s incredibly empowering, and for some the first time they experience this level of independence.”
For many families, Spiral Garden is a place of respite for kids and parents alike. The program alleviates stress from caretakers allowing them some much needed time to themselves, while confident their child is in the best care.
“I can get a haircut, catch up with a friend, or spend one-on-one time with my spouse. Having this support helps us parents stay strong for our kids with disabilities while still taking care of ourselves and our families,” said Arpita.
“By supporting Holland Bloorview, you don’t just give kids world-class treatment. You also help them exercise their imagination and creativity. You give them the opportunity to make new friends, build their confidence, and blossom – just like the beautiful flowers in the Spiral Garden.”
Like Rehan says “Spiral Garden is an enchanted place.”
As we welcome a new season at Spiral Garden, join us in celebrating the committed caregivers at Holland Bloorview and their dedication to their loved ones.
