Before You Picking a Camp for Special Needs - Choosing a Camp for Disabled Children

Consider your child's learning disability, strengths, needs, and interests.

• What does he do well?
• What kinds of activities interest him?
• What new things would he likely enjoy learning?
• Does he need close supervision, partial assistance, or full, hand-over-hand assistance with tasks?
• Does he need physical accommodations such as a wheelchair, special seating, or other adaptive equipment?
• Does he have medical needs such as diabetes or food allergies?
• Can your child communicate his needs and participate, and will the camp staff help with this need?

Camps may be locally owned and operated or affiliated with larger organizations. Contact the camp and the state attorney general's office, and ask for:

• The name and contact information of the individual or agency that operates the camp;
• The contact information for the state agency that oversees the camp;
• Information on any complaints that may have been filed against the camp and results of any investigations against it by local authorities or the Better Business Bureau;
• Information on any criminal investigations of the staff or administration; and
• Training and qualifications of the camp's staff.

Learn about the camp's daily routine, staffing, and support services. Does the camp provide:

• Training to staff on working with learning disabilities;
• A camp nurse with training in your child's medical needs;
• Adaptive materials and wheelchair access;
• Flexibility, such as extra time, to learn activities if needed;
• Staff with a nurturing and supportive attitude, valuing the importance of all children; and
• Someone to serve as your contact who will talk with you about your learning disabled child's needs before camp begins and who will ensure her needs are addressed during her stay.

Will the camp provide or ensure:

• Opportunities for you to speak with your child during the week if she cannot write home or read your letters;
• That disability harassment and bullying are never permitted;
• Your child's disabilities will be supported without embarrassment for your child; and
• Sufficient numbers of adults will be present to ensure all children get the individual and small group guidance they need.

Your child's school counselors, special education teachers, church youth group leaders, physical and occupational therapists, and civic organizations can often provide references for area camps that do a good job accommodating children with special needs.