Longford Airc based summer camp to support children with additional needs

The upcoming Longford Airc based Summer Camps are taking place at Coral Leisure Swimming Pool, Megabowl and The Attic on Ballinalee Road, Longford.

There are two camps, one for under 10's and one for over 10's. For details about the camp activities see the camp flyers and if you want to book,  text / WhatsApp camp Team Leader Sarah on 086 150 6416.

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Áirc Midlands is a community‑run organisation supporting children with additional needs and their families aims to bring joy, connection, and vital supports to local families. Additional needs may include disability, long term illness and/or neurodivergence.

Founded by parents, friends, and supporters of children with additional needs, Áirc Midlands was formed in response to the lack of accessible and truly inclusive supports, activities and facilities. Every child and family deserves to experience inclusion and belonging. At Airc that is the environment they strive to create and protect by removing barriers to inclusion and belonging. 

The Penguin Club stands out as one of their most popular and inclusive programmes. The Penguin Club offers children with additional needs (and their siblings) a fun, inclusive, all‑abilities activity session. Held in accessible community venues, these clubs can feature multi‑sports activities, sensory play, Lego tables, and arts and crafts in a safe supportive environment.

Sessions are always fully inclusive (siblings are welcome) and booking a place is subsidised by Airc so either low cost or free to families, although pre‑booking is essential. Events are loosely structured and child led so everyone feels safe and able to engage at the level they want to. Everyone belongs. The newest Penguin Club activities take place in Longford (every second Saturday in the Attic 11am-12.30pm. Contact  Sarah 086 150 6416). 

Behind the Penguin Club are passionate volunteers and trained leaders. Penguin Club manager Alma, who has a background in disability‑inclusive sports co-ordinates the club across the Midlands ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and fun experience for all children.

Áirc Midlands offers even more than its Penguin Club. Since its launch, the group has delivered a wide range of supports, including emergency respite grants, therapy and equipment subsidies, coffee mornings for parents, accessible children’s parties, and care packages during times of crisis such as hospital stays. They also represent the voice of families on various boards and networks so that accessibility and inclusion remains an important part of the conversation. 

With a mission of “Celebrating Difference, Promoting Inclusion, and Supporting Families”, Áirc Midlands embodies community spirit and grassroots impact. The Penguin Club is a perfect example of this as it creates an environment where children of all abilities can play, learn, and grow together, championing inclusive play in the Midlands. No child left behind. 

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For more information, details about the Penguin Club, or how to donate or volunteer, visit  www.aircmidlands.com or  facebook.com/aircmidlands  or call 085 279 1490.