MSSC A PARENT’S VIEW
A parent’s view
Tracey Clapson, a parent from Hinckley Unit
Sean very much enjoys the structure and discipline of Sea Cadets. It fits in very well with his rigid ‘autistic’ thoughts and ways. He has become much more confident and mature. He seems to understand his condition now, therefore is more able to manage his feelings. He’s calmer, which I’m 100% convinced is a direct impact of Sea Cadets, and he is more able to concentrate at He has always been interested in ships and the Royal Navy. school. His grades have improved dramatically in the past When my dad was alive Sean spent hours quizzing him as year too. my dad was in the Royal Navy. As soon as Sean was 10 he joined Sea Cadets and has never looked back. This year Large groups and lots of noise will always be a struggle but he decided he wanted to be a royal marines cadet and being part of Sea Cadets has made Sean want to be part of he moved over at Easter. He hasn’t looked back and has a team and to belong. It has made him realise that he needs become more confident than ever. to think of others as well as himself and he now does this very well. I’m not sure where Sean would be without Sea Cadets. He has friends, is part of a team and has people he can talk to. Sea Cadets is great for all kids but for children like Sean with special needs it’s just amazing.” “Sean has ADHD and autism. Before Sea Cadets he had problems socialising and mixing, especially with strangers. He’s gained powerboat, sailing, windsurfing and rowing qualifications as well as qualifications in seamanship and marine engineering. Others believe in him now and, more importantly, he believes in himself.
“... being part of Sea Cadets has made Sean want to be part of a team and to belong. It has made him realise that he needs to think of others as well as himself and he now does this very well. I’m not sure where Sean would be without Sea Cadets.” 18