Getting outside in an inaccessible world, with Laura Van Doormaal, conservation professional and disability advocate

We are so honoured to be joined by an amazing mama and advocate Laura Van Doormaal. Laura is originally from Ontario and moved to Vancouver with her now husband to be closer to nature. Their outdoorsy lifestyle shifted when their daughter was diagnosed with a rare disease but they are determined to find a way to give her the same experiences they enjoy.

Laura is just an all round awesome human and we are thrilled to speak with her in this episode!

Tune in to hear: 

• Laura’s experience navigating the outdoors in B.C. with a child in a wheelchair
• What it means for a playground to be truly accessible
• How small, mom-owned businesses rallied around Laura and her family in their time of need
• What you can do to contribute to a world that is actually accessible for all kids

The great organisations mentioned in the podcast: 

• British Columbia Mobility Opportunities Society 
• Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports Society
• Not a Wheelchair

Some of our favourite accounts around disability and physical accessibility on social media:

• Life with Lucy (Laura’s account)
• Nina Tame
• Disability Reframed
• Crutches and Spice
• Laesa Faith Kim

Some of our favourite books about disability for kids: 

• What happened to you, by James Catchpole 
• Bodies are cool, by Tyler Feder
• You are enough, by Margaret O’Hair and Sofia Sanchez

Support the brands who have supported Laura and her family, including: 

• Simply Merino
• Beansprouts Consignment
• Petits Villains
• Jax and Lennon Co
• Hey Folks

Connect with us on Instagram for more tips @getoutsidewithkids

Check out our website for our favourite gear to get outside!