Camp is beneficial for children with special needs, and choosing the right camp is extremely important. The wrong camp can make for a miserable experience, while the right one is not only fun for your child but can also help prepare her for life. Here are some of the best camps from around the United States. *Please note that these camps are ones I have found through research. If considering one of these camps, please research it and meet with the staff to ensure it is the best pick for your child.
Camp For All, Texas
Camp For All is unique in that its facilities can house children with a multitude of disabilities and needs. Each year, different camps are scheduled for children with everything from PKU to cerebral palsy, as well as a universal camp. Most campers come from southeast Texas, but some of the camps attract campers from around the US and the world. In addition, Camp For All covers 68% of the cost for each camper. Camp For All is barrier free and works with non-profits to plan the camps. The camp sits on 206 acres with 100,000 square feet of facilities, two lakes, nature trails, wooded areas, and cleared areas. It is all fully accessible and features wide, gently sloping concrete walkways. The Health Center is probably the best part. It features treatment rooms, a volunteer medical staff, an education area and medical support areas.
Horizons, Connecticut
Horizons is a camp for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Their facilities include a computer/media center, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis courts, mini-golf, hobby center, and recreation hall with a game room. There is also horseback riding, arts and crafts, woodworking and pottery, as well as a lake with beach, docks and boats. Horizons has a 5:1 camper-counselor ratio in addition to their program instructors and staff. Each camper is given individualized attention in her area of need.
Camp Royall, North Carolina
Camp Royall is the largest and oldest camp for people with autism. It is accredited by the American Camp Association and features traditional bunks as well as private rooms for those that need them. A 2:1 camper to counselor ratio allows for round-the-clock care and supervision. Counselors at Camp Royall have received intensive hands-on training provided by autism professionals. The 133-acre facility allows for activities including swimming, boating, arts and crafts, hiking, a waterslide, disc golf, music, field games, and team building.
Camp Civitan, Arizona
Camp Civitan is located on 15 wheelchair accessible acres and offers the camping experience to people with developmental disabilities. The camp has arts and crafts, drama, creative movement, music, swimming, adaptive sports, nutrition classes, and special classes such as Karate. Camp Civitan’s Phoenix Summer Day Camp is for children and adolescents with special needs offering camps that fit individual schedules.
*Please note that these camps are ones I have found through research. If considering one of these camps, please research it and meet with the staff to ensure it is the best pick for your child.
Part I: Benefits of Camp for Children with Special Needs
Part II: Preparing for Camp