Inclusive Summer Adventures

Ah, summer camp. For so many of us, it conjures memories of bug spray, sticky marshmallows, and questionably comfortable cots. (I’ll be honest—camp was never my thing.) But for kids, camp can be magical—a time to make new friends, try new activities, and soak up those quintessential summer moments. And our kiddos with special needs? They deserve that magic, too.

While we haven’t ventured into the world of camps with William just yet (we’re holding off until he’s a little older), I’ve done a ton of research, and I wanted to share what I’ve found. Whether you’re considering a day camp or an overnight experience, there’s an option out there that can give your child an unforgettable summer.

The Different Flavors of Camps

Here’s the good news: camps today are more inclusive than ever. Thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), camps are required to make reasonable accommodations for kids with disabilities. This means that whether you’re looking at a mainstream camp with support services or a camp specifically designed for kids with special needs, there are more options now than ever.

Some of the types of camps you’ll find include:

• Specialized camps: These are tailored for kids with specific needs, such as autism, ADHD, or physical disabilities.

• Mainstream camps: These cater to all kids but offer accommodations to support children with special needs.

• Therapeutic camps: Focused on goals like building social skills, improving motor skills, or providing therapeutic recreation.

• Day camps vs. sleepaway camps: Day camps can be a great option for younger kids, while overnight camps might work well for older children looking to build independence.

Camps in Minnesota

Here are a few camps I’ve come across that offer amazing opportunities for kids with autism, ADHD, and neurodiverse needs:

• AuSM Summer Camps: Autism-friendly day and residential camps with highly trained staff. AuSM camps are tailored to provide safe and supportive environments for neurodiverse children and adults.

• Bridge the Gap Camp: Offers academic, recreational, and social skills programming for kids with autism and individual learning needs.

• Camp Connections: Located in Excelsior, this unique day camp combines social skills programming with therapeutic recreation for children with autism and related conditions.

• Camp FUNdamentals: Nature-based and animal-assisted camps for kids of all abilities, supported by a pediatric occupational therapist.

• Camp Knutson: A nurturing environment offering activities like swimming, arts and crafts, and nature exploration for children with various special needs, including autism.

• MICC Summer Program: For young adults with learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, or other neurological conditions, this program focuses on career readiness, social awareness, and independent living skills.

• True Friends: This organization offers multiple camp locations and programs for children and adults with disabilities, including autism. Activities are adapted to each camper’s abilities.

If you’ve discovered a camp that’s been a game-changer for your family, I’d love to hear about it. Let’s keep building this list to help other families find their perfect fit!

Here’s to a summer full of adventure, growth, and maybe just a little bug spray.