Summer Camp Organization
by
Susan Parziale 
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Summer Camp Organization
Summer fun for the special needs child requires lots of investigating and early registration. There are programs available to give your child some summer fun, but, they fill up very fast and you need to have done your research ahead of time on the programs that will appeal to your child.
The first telephone call I would suggest is to call your local support center (Autism Support Center, The ARC, National Association of the Deaf, etc.) and speak to someone in their Recreation Department. Ask them to review the list of summer programs available for your child’s age group and if they sound like a program that your child would like. Then, register over the telephone right away!
There is also the option of a residential special needs camp for children and young adults with mild to moderate learning and developmental challenges. These camps have day long activities for your child to keep them busy. Residential camps are also fully staffed with aids and counselors. Again, these camps also fill up fast, so register ASAP! Residential camps can be expensive; however, do not let that stop you from enrolling. You might be able to have the entire cost (or a portion of the cost) paid by your district as part of your IEP.
The benefits of attending a day or residential camp for special needs children are the same for any child: they will build confidence and independent living, exercising and many fun activities, socializing with other children, and making friendships! Plus, parents of special needs children need a break and sometimes our children might just need a break from us.
Wishing you all a happy and safe summer!
Susan Parziale is a certified Professional Organizer. She is also a mother to 8 year old daughter with Autism.
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This post originally appeared on our May/June 20213 Magazine
