Kaitlynn's Place

There are over a million special needs children that attend summer camps each year. I was amazed to see just how many “specialty” camps were out there when I started researching special needs camps. There are camps that integrate special needs campers into the total camp population (mainstream.) There are also camps that cater to specific need, diagnosis, physical ability, mental ability, etc..

Physical, medical, and mental disability is no longer a barrier to special needs children attending a camp. Aspergers , autism, asthma, burn children, cancer, CP, cystic fibrosis, developmental disorders, diabetes, dyslexia, hearing impaired, HIV, ADHD, muscular dystrophy, tourettes, spina bifida, visually impaired, etc..

Most parents of special needs children are extraordinarily protective of their little one, and rightly so. However, before you close you mind to the idea of summer camp, think of the benefits for your child- independence, confidence building, activity and exercise outlet, and opportunity to interact and create friendships with peers and alike special needs children. 

Resources for finding a camp:

KidsCamps.com
MySummerCamps.com 
cshcn summer camp directory
campresource.com

When considering what camp best suits your families needs, make a list of questions, concerns, and desires.
For example- does the camp have staff that is certified, is the camp is accredited (ACA National Headquarters 800-428-CAMP); does the camp meet your child’s specific dietary, physical and mental needs; etc..

If cost is an issue, you can contact local charitable organizations, religious charities, ethnic charities, specific disease organizations, and fraternal organizations. These organizations often sponsor a child to attend a special needs camp.