School’s almost out and summer is just around the corner. If you haven’t considered it before, summer camps for kids with disabilities are fun, instructional, inspiring, and offer ways for kids to socialize. There are all KINDS of camps, and most likely several in your area, providing opportunities for your child to have a terrific summer-fun experience.
My son Garrett loved attending his juvenile diabetes camp in San Diego, California. Camp “Wanna-Kura” provided fun activities that taught principles of nutrition, glucose 
testing, and insulin dosing. There were LOTS of other kids for Garrett to interact with, who all had diabetes just like him. It was an eye-opening experience for him to see that he wasn’t alone with his condition…and far from it. There were qualified advisors everywhere, so even though he wasn’t quite independent with his diabetic care, I didn’t have to worry. Camp gave him something to do during the long lazy days in the sun. And mom and dad got a needed break.
There are camps for every disability imaginable: ADHD, developmental delays, Autism, Aspergers, specific learning disabilities, mental retardation, children with cancer or chronic illness, juvenile diabetes, physical disabilities, and the list goes on.
Check out these websites to find a great summer camp for your child:
Talisman Summer Camps for Exceptional Kids
Family Village Special Needs Camps
Try your own internet search; there are many more sites available. You can also check with the foundation for your child’s specific condition, and ask what camps they would recommend.
If the website doesn’t explain, call or email the camp sponsors and ask these questions:
1. What is the cost? Location? Session Dates?
2. How many children attend a session, and do they stay overnight?
3. What are the qualifications of your staff? What is the staff/camper ratio?
4. Can my child take medication at camp? (Most special needs camps have qualified staff to administer it.)
5. How will you get in touch with parents?
6. What activities do you offer? What therapy or instruction do you offer for my child’s particular disability?
7. How do you discipline kids at camp?
8. How long have you been running the camp?
9. Can you refer me to a parent whose child has attended the camp before?
Give your child the fun, memorable experience of summer camp!
Kristyn Crow is the author of this blog. Visit her website by clicking here.