This year, we’re partnering with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to provide a first in Australian schools – Sunflower Sessions – which will allow students to opt for calm, unhurried photography sessions.
We’ve always believed that every student should experience a school photo day that is fun and stress-free, but this may not always have been the experience of the neurodiverse community or students and staff living with a non-visible disability. With the introduction of Sunflower Sessions, we hope to create a photography experience everyone can enjoy.
What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?
Some disabilities, conditions, or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. Some people question whether someone has a disability because “they don’t look like they have a disability”.
That is why the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was created. You might have seen people wearing a green lanyard with sunflowers on it. It’s a simple tool allowing people to share that they have a non-visible disability (if they wish to). Simply by wearing the Sunflower, they’re letting others know that they might need extra help, understanding, or just more time. And by wearing the white supporters’ lanyard, the SchoolPix team are expressing that they have completed the Sunflower Member training and are ready to offer that understanding and support.
What Will Sunflower Sessions Look Like?
Sunflower Sessions are optional, pre-scheduled photography times offered by SchoolPix to support students and/or staff who may benefit from a calmer, quieter photo environment.
- Participation is optional and identified by the school or parent/guardian.
- No diagnosis or documentation is required.
- A positive experience is always the priority.
Sunflower Sessions are designed to be inclusive, respectful, and easy to manage. Educators, support staff, or a young person’s guardian may identify students who would benefit from participating.
Depending on each school’s requirements, these sessions are scheduled either before the first class group, or just before or after recess or lunch breaks.
Where Can I Learn More?
Information for Parents
For parents who believe their child would benefit from participating in a Sunflower Session, further information can be found at the link below.
How can my child participate in Sunflower Sessions?
Information for Schools
If you would like to learn more about including Sunflower Sessions in your school’s photography day, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly or talk to your friendly account manager.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Website
Further information on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program can be found on their website.
There you’ll find a range of resources to help you better understand non-visible disabilities and the ways in which the Sunflower network offers support.