Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (24 February 2014): Recent research has shown that there are a number of benefits to ocean therapy for children with special needs; and in particular kids with autism.

With this in mind, Chatterbox, a local therapy and education centre, took to the water to take advantage of Grand Cayman’s beautiful Seven Mile Beach and host a family-friendly day of stand-up paddle boarding at Governor’s Beach, generously sponsored by MaplesFS.

“It was a great afternoon with about twenty families turning up to have fun and try out a new skill,” said Roz Griffiths, Chatterbox Manager and Senior Speech and Language Therapist.

Autism is a developmental disorder that impacts social and communication skills. Recent observations into nature and ocean therapy have shown an increase in cognitive and social skills in autistic children as a result of spending time in these natural environments. “We proved that kids of all ages can enjoy this upcoming sport and leisure activity and that it helps children with special needs to improve their balance and coordination skills, whilst meeting new friends and having a huge amount of fun,” explained Griffiths.

Stand-up paddle boarding is a fast-growing activity in Cayman, which people of all skill levels can enjoy. “Our youngest paddle boarder was just three years-old and one family had three generations in the water,” added Griffiths. “A big thank you to MaplesFS for their support of our stand-up paddle boarding events. We look forward to partnering with them again in the future to help bring fun to those who need it most.”

MaplesFS actively supports a broad range of organisations and initiatives which benefit members of the community, including the youth and the elderly.

Chatterbox provides Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Pivotal Response Therapy, Clinical Psychology and Special Education, as well as training for parents and professionals, learning and language programmes and a PLIESE Art programme – all focused on enhancing communication, learning and language.

MaplesFS CEO Scott Somerville said, “Community events like Chatterbox’s family fun days are key to the positive development of children with special needs living in the Cayman Islands. Chatterbox provides an invaluable resource and support network for both children and their parents and MaplesFS is honoured to support the organisation to continue their hard work for this worthy cause.”

Photo Caption:

Chatterbox’s stand-up paddle boarding family fun day sponsored by MaplesFS saw more than 20 families take to the water to try a new skill.

About MaplesFS

MaplesFS is a leading specialised fiduciary and fund services provider. MaplesFS has offices in the Cayman Islands, Delaware, Dubai, Dublin, Hong Kong, Luxembourg, Montreal, New York and Singapore.

MaplesFS is led by a team of experienced professionals and is committed to providing a high level of service tailored to specific client requirements.

For additional information please contact:

Harriet Moon

Marketing Assistant

MaplesFS