Every Child Can Learn

It is a simple statement but a bold belief. It is a belief that is at the heart of what we call ‘inclusion’. Generally speaking, inclusion in education is a continual process that aims to include all children in a meaningful education, where they are not only accepted, but also valued.

Inclusion is the belief that drives us to set high expectations for all children, not just some children. Inclusion is the philosophy that inspires us to provide all children with the means to achieve. Sometimes, this means we have to rethink what we thought was even possible.

It is a belief that led to Skate Anima. Founded by physiotherapist Stevan Pinto and psychologist Daniel Paniagua, the group makes skateboarding accessible for children and uses it as a tool for social inclusion.

As they say, “Skate como evidência do potencial humano” or “Skate as evidence of human potential.”

Their Instagram is loaded with videos and photos of children learning to skateboard. Learning to cross barriers many would think were insurmountable, all with the belief that every child can learn.

Along the way they also teach others another powerful belief: that every child belongs.

There is much that we can learn from organizations like Skate Anima, but the most fundamental message is this: every child can learn; every child belongs; every child is valued.

Cody Alton
Director of Student Support Services