Through its activities, INCLUDE aims at integrating children and families at risk of social exclusion and forming a positive attitude towards diversity. The networks researches, designs, implements, evaluates and recommends practices for achieving inclusivity that improve interactions between typically developing children and children with disabilities or different socio-cultural backgrounds and their families, making use of innovative forms of art, technology, sports and play.

As a part of its activities, INCLUDE undertakes the design and implementation of a Judo training program for children with mental and/or autism spectrum disorders, created in collaboration with KETHEA (PROMETHEUS and ITHACA). Graduates of rehab programmes of KETHEA train - and train together with - children with ASD, under the guidance of special education teachers and Judo coaches.

In 2019, the programme “I learn to fall, get up and stand my ground” was designed and implemented; it is an inclusive activity of Judo training for children with intellectual and autism spectrum disorders, supported by members and graduates of the KETHEA PROMETHEUS and under the guidance of special education professionals and Judo instructors. Judo training has significant cognitive and psychosocial benefits for children; most notably the transformation of mental to motor representation, problem solving, decisionmaking, the development of a sense of security and the reinforcement of self-confidence. The activity was completed with the design of relevant specialised educational material, based on the principles of universal design for learning, and its publication and dissemination to facilities and Day Care Centres for People with Disabilities as well as Judo clubs throughout Greece.

• 5 volunteers - members of the KETHEA programmes as well as 13 children with autism spectrum disorders participated in the programme.

“Greatness! Silent excitement at JUDO's training area when, in front of the surprised eyes of teachers and parents, children with mental and autistic disorders, in white uniforms, exercise, respecting the rules of the sport, stand on their feet and claim their autonomy. With them, the members of KETHEA PROMETHEAS, with consistency and soul, support the effort of all and share anxieties and emotions. The benefactors benefit, those who teach are taught! We experience the greatness of universal design while the educational material we design reaches all all the Dojos of the world! The "Points of Support" Programme paves the way of social inclusion for all through Judo! How much benevolence! Rei! Hajime!”

Dr. Andromachi Nanou

Chairwoman, INCLUDE