As a parent of a child with special needs, how could you possibly trust anyone to deliver the same level of care you provide day in and day out? It’s a question on the minds of many parents searching for the people and places best suited to not only understand the daily challenges common to children with special needs but also help the child conquer them. Entrusting a special needs child to new caregivers is without a doubt a huge step for parents. Parents ready to take the step can consider a specialized summer camp program.
It’s Scary. But It Makes Sense.
Parents may hesitate initially to enroll their child in summer camp. After all, if a special needs child never spent a single night away from home — which is quite common — then how can the child spend an entire summer on their own? It’s scary. But take a closer look and a summer camp designed for children with special needs starts to make sense. The experience can even be one both you and your child look forward to year after year.
Building Confidence, Independence and Lifelong Friends
Just like any other child, the fun and friendships that blossom at summer camp help children with special needs grow up. The chance to get away from home, meet new people, try new activities and overcome challenges in a new and exciting environment builds confidence and independence, especially in special needs children.
In fact, few places offer more opportunities for sharing new experiences in a healthy and natural outdoor environment than a summer camp program. Campers enjoy water sports, hiking, music, arts and crafts, campfires, s’mores, singalongs and more. Every day is another chance for creating special bonds and cherished memories.
Specialized Treatment — Tailored to Your Child’s Needs
Aside from helping campers build confidence, independence and lifelong friends, a summer camp program for children with special needs recognizes an important truth: that no two children with disabilities have the same needs. A specialized intake process helps parents work with a staff of professional therapists and counselors to design a structured program tailored to the child’s unique needs. No child is left behind in receiving the specialized type of care that matters most.
A Safe & Supportive Environment
Another key aspect of summer camp is safety, which is important not only in the physical sense but also in the emotional. Low camper-to-staff ratios promote the individualized attention and care to meet every camper’s physical, mental and emotional needs. Experienced staff members who enjoy working with special needs children, trained to look for each camper’s unique abilities and potential as an individual, help bring out the best in every camper.
Putting It All Together
The benefits available to children at summer camp mean even more to children with special needs. As a parent, you can rest assured the only difficult time for sending your child to a special needs camp is the first time. After that, you can trust your gut to send your child back every summer.
