How to Find a Camp for Kids With Medical Conditions

Raising a child with a medical condition such as asthma, cancer, epilepsy or muscular dystrophy is challenging. You may be juggling several things such as school, doctor's visits, treatments and therapy. Keep in mind it's important to take time out to allow your child to have fun. Every child needs to forget about their medical condition for a while. One way to allow a child to just be a regular kid is by having her attend a camp with other children who have similar medical problems.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Determine what type of camp your child is able to go to. There are several types of camps including day camps and sleep away camps. Programs may last from one week to several weeks. Consider your child's condition, how comfortable they are away from home, their age, the cost and the location of the camp when making a choice.
2. Ask your child's doctor for information on any camps for children with medical conditions such as the one your child has. The doctor's staff may also be able to provide you with information.
3. Call local agencies that provide education and support to children with the medical problem your child has. For example if your child has cancer, contact your local American Cancer Society. They may know of camps for kids or be able to refer you to another agency that has information.
4. Talk with other parents. Children with medical problems often spend times at clinics, hospitals and therapy appointments. You may get to know other parents. Ask around. Other parents can be a great resource.
5. Contact the American Camping Association. They have a website that lists all types of camps. Type in your child's medical condition and state in which you live for results.
6. Check out the camp. Speak to the director to get specific information. Camps for kids with medical conditions will have a medical team on site for needed treatment. They may have adaptive recreational activities. Ask how many children are assigned to a counselor and what type of activities children will be doing.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on your child's medical condition, you may want to consider how far the camp is from a hospital. Although medical personal are at the camp, you may be more comfortable knowing a hospital is nearby.
• Have your child see his pediatrician for a checkup before attending camp. You will want to be sure your child's condition is stable enough for him to attend camp. You can also discuss any physical restrictions you child should adhere to.