News
This past weekend, 10 families joined us for an unforgettable experience at the 4lifeskills Farmstay Family Retreat which was made possible by a generous grant from Perron Institute and the support of Boshack Outback Stay. It was a chance to step away from the hustle of daily life, relax in nature, and enjoy quality time together. With an array of engaging activities, supportive staff, and a welcoming environment, the retreat was filled with laughter, adventure, and meaningful connections.
A Space for Everyone
One of the key goals of the retreat was to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where families of children with disabilities could unwind and feel at ease. Qualified support staff were available throughout the weekend to ensure each family received the assistance they needed, allowing them to fully enjoy the experience. The positive response from families was overwhelming—parents were delighted, and we received no negative feedback at all. This retreat has incredible potential for growth, and we are excited to continue expanding its offerings in the future.
Memorable Moments
From the moment families arrived, there was a sense of excitement and community. The weekend was packed with activities designed to be enjoyable for all family members. Some of the highlights included:
- Canoeing Adventures: Families paddled through calm waters, enjoying the beauty of nature while bonding over a fun, active experience.
- Farm Fun: Children and parents alike loved spending time with the animals, feeding them, and learning about farm life.
- Bubble Making: A simple yet magical activity, giant bubbles floated through the air, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.
- Camp Activities: From arts and crafts to group games, there was never a dull moment.
- Yoga, Fitness & Relaxation: A new addition to the retreat, these activities focused on promoting mindfulness and well-being for both parents and children.
- Making New Friends: Perhaps the most heartwarming part of the retreat was seeing families connect with one another, sharing their experiences, and forming new friendships.
One particularly touching moment was shared by Tyler, a young participant who was initially hesitant and reserved. By the end of the retreat, he had grown so comfortable that he proudly shared his artwork with the group. His mother revealed that he had been painting since he was three but had stopped due to bullying at school. Seeing him open up again and embrace his talent was an incredibly moving experience. Inspired by his story, we are exploring the possibility of inviting Tyler to host a small workshop at Spearwood, where he can showcase his skills and inspire others.
A Grateful Reflection
As the weekend came to a close, it was clear that this retreat was more than just a getaway—it was a time of renewal, connection, and joy. Families left with cherished memories, a sense of community, and a renewed appreciation for quality time spent together. Saying goodbye was difficult—no one wanted to leave!
Many families shared their gratitude for having an opportunity to have respite and to also be able to connect to other families with similar experiences and are looking forward to similar events in the future.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to all the families who joined us and to our dedicated support staff who made this retreat possible. Your enthusiasm, kindness, and shared experiences made this weekend truly special.
Looking Ahead
All spots for this retreat were quickly filled, and we are thrilled with the positive feedback we received. As we plan for future retreats, we are excited to incorporate a more structured itinerary with detailed descriptions of each activity and its benefits. This will allow families to better understand what’s on offer and make the most of their experience.
4lifeskills is committed to providing young people with disabilities a space to learn, grow, and feel included. We continue our mission to support children and youth with disabilities and provide them with excellent opportunities to enjoy their lives and make meaningful connections through events like the Family Retreat.
