Others are just day programs, overnight camps or both. Such organizations tend to cater to the specific needs of their clientele, supported by a long history of service to youth with disabilities and their families. Some special needs camps will offer educational support or continue with occupational therapy, physical therapy, or speech therapy. Special needs camps can specifically handle the medical, behavioral, dietary, physical, emotional, cognitive or social needs of their campers. Generally, the staff to camper ratio will vary from one to one or one to four.
Families choose special needs camps for a wide variety of reasons.
The more than 300 ACA accredited camps in the New England region reflect every imaginable activity and structure. From private, religiously-affiliated camps, to agency, nonprofit camps to teen travel adventure camps, every family should be able to discover a camp which meets their budget, program needs and child's desires. This might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but careful investigation can help you find a good match for both the camp and your child. Traditional camps generally serve a variety of children, from all economic and cultural backgrounds. If physical accessibility is imperative, ask about the location and layout of the camp.