As a parent, you may be anxious or worried about finding a camp that meets your child’s needs. From highly specialized camps to regular camps that accommodate children with special needs, there are options for every child. With careful consideration of what will benefit your child most, along with some research, you should be able to find the right camp for your child.

Sending your child to camp will benefit them in many ways. They will be provided with structure and routine, have a chance to build confidence and independence, and get plenty of activity and exercise. They will also have many opportunities to interact with other children, develop friendships and learn skills from others. Camp will help them learn to problem solve and communicate their needs to others outside their family circle. Even though it may be hard to let go, camp will also give you some time to yourself.

To start your search, it is a good idea to make a list of the kind of camp you want. It can be challenging to find a camp to meet your child’s needs and sometimes, you don’t even know where to start looking. The following questions can be used as a guide to help you decide what you are looking for in a camp:

1. Do you want day camp or overnight camp?
2. Do you want a specialized camp for children with special needs?
3. Do you want an inclusive camp?
4. Do you want a half-day or full-day program? Have you considered if your child is comfortable being away from home and her age?
5. Do you want a camp placement for one week, or the entire summer?
6. How far from home will you be comfortable for a residential or even day camp for your child?
7. What cost can you afford? Is subsidy available?
8. Do you have benefits for your child (e.g., Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities or Special Services at Home), that might assist with the cost for the camp or a support worker for your child?
9. If you want an inclusive camp, does your child need a support person to be with her and is this available at the camp? If so, is there an additional cost?
10. If your child is physically fragile, do you need a nurse on staff?
11. Do you want counselors with CPR and First Aid Training?
12. Does your child need medication? Can staff administer medication?
13. If your child has special dietary needs, can this be accommodated at the camp?
14. Do you need transportation for your child to the camp? Is it available?
15. Are there specific activities your child likes and you would like the camp to include?

To read the rest of this article and learn more about choosing the right summer camp for your child, visit:

http://connectability.ca/2010/09/23/sending-your-child-to-camp/