The Maine LEND program engages families in second annual family picnic

The Maine Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) program held its second annual Family Picnic on Sept. 22, 2018. This event launches the family-led educational component of the Maine LEND program, an integral part of teaching family centered care.

The 14 interprofessional Maine LEND trainees organized and engaged children of all abilities in activities that included a variety of developmental levels such as ladder ball, arts and crafts, bubbles, Playdoh, Legos and giant Jenga. 52 people attended the picnic, which also welcomed 12 families into the Maine LEND community that will become host families for the family-led experience.

Each trainee gave input into their host family choice and will spend an average of one hour per week during the nine month program. Trainees will learn first-hand about the day-to-day joys and challenges of raising a child (or children) with neurodevelopmental disabilities.

Program Director Eileen Ricci, PT, D.P.T., M.S., PCS, and Training Director Kathryn Loukas, O.T.D., M.S., OTR/L, FAOTA, welcomed families and led the event while Administrative Specialist Mae Gagnon organized the logistics.