This week we heard from Nicki, mum to 13 year old James, who has Down syndrome. They were just back from a skiing holiday in Austria - where all the family had the time of their lives!  Nicki was telling us about a new ski centre, Skiing 4 All, that was set up by Anna Wegner, a British Psychologist and an Austrian-qualified Ski Instructor. Anna's ski school school caters specifically for children and adults with cognitive amd learning disabilities, including Down syndrome, Autism, Asperger Syndrome and ADHD. ( www.skiing4all.com )

The philosophy of Anna's ski school combines her experience as a psychologist with her passion for outdoor sport activities. This unique combination has helped her create a unique program for people with special developmental, emotional and educational needs - all in a natural setting. She cites some of the therapeutic changes which benefit disabled skiers as improved communication and social skills; improved authentic expression; increased levels of self-confidence and self-esteem; sharpened concentration and increased levels of creativity. The experience of being outdoors in such beautiful forms of nature while facilating contact with different natural materials also helps deepen an understanding of ones personal needs and encourages a disire to discover new possibilities and overcome personal limits. To say nothing about the promotion of exercise, mobility and increased fitness levels!

The Skiing 4 All programs also include use of a 25m swimming pool and pony / horse-riding lessons - amidst the stunning Alpine scenery - a nice treat when you get too tired to ski!

Nicki and James are already planning a return trip next year.

Doesn't it sound idyllic? I know the pictures alone have cheered me up!