Camp for Disabled Kids

Choosing a camp for a child with special needs can be an overwhelming task. According to kidshealth.org, more camp options for children with special needs are available now than ever before. The passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990 has helped to create far more awareness of the needs of individuals with disabilities. As a result, it is becoming easier to find a camp for your special needs child.

Types of Camps

The numerous camps across the country offer a variety of programs. Specialized camps are developed for groups of children with similar needs. For example, some are specifically developed for mentally handicapped individuals; others are tailored for the physically handicapped. There are also camps for children with terminal or chronic illnesses such as cancer and diabetes. Each program is designed for the specific group of children who will attend.

Some parents prefer an inclusionary format for their campers. Inclusionary camps give special-needs children access to programs that children without special needs also attend. Another choice is a camp that includes children with different types of special needs.

Programs can have day-camp and resident-camp formats. At a resident camp, the child stays overnight for the duration of the camp, rather than reporting to camp and returning home daily.

Americans with Disabilities Act

The ADA was passed in 1990 and amended in 2008. This act has put in place guidelines and regulations to ensure equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities as well as to protect against discrimination. The act has also set forth building specifications that allow people with disabilities to gain easy access to buildings and other public places. It is important to be aware of ADA and the rights your child has as a person with disabilities.

A camp with facilities that meet ADA requirements allows easy access by people with special needs.

The American Camp Association

The American Camp Association has set forth guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety of camp facilities and programs. When a camp's literature states that the camp is ACA accredited, the camp has met the ACA's guidelines and regulations for safety. Through acacamps.org, you can search specifically for ACA-accredited camps for children with special needs.

Choosing the Right Camp

Talk with your child to determine what interests him. Many camps offer a general program in which children experience several outdoor activities, including archery, swimming and boating. You will need to decide whether your child is ready for a resident camp or whether day camp is a better option. Finally, decide whether your child will benefit more from a specialized camp or an inclusionary camp .

Why Camp?

Children with disabilities can richly benefit from attending a summer camp. They meet other children who share their disability. They also experience an increase in confidence, independence, activity, exercise and socialization. These benefits stay with camp participants long after camp is over.

References

• Americans with Disabilities Act
• American Camp Association
• Finding a Camp for Your Child With Special Needs