Parents' Camp Concerns

Many Canadian camps offer programs to children with special needs, including physical challenges, medical conditions, developmental, behavioural or learning disabilities. Whatever their mandate, and whether the camp provides shadows or support staff or requires parents to send someone familiar and experienced in working with their child, these camps have facilities that are adapted for children with special needs, and medical/camp staff who are trained to work with these campers.

Some camps integrate children with special needs into their general program; others are entirely devoted to children with specific needs. Both aim to challenge the kids and offer them a rewarding time at camp. To ensure the best fit for your child, ask about:

• Medical and professional staff, their experience and expertise
• Storage and administration of medication
• Availability of special foods for campers on restricted diets
• Adaptations or supports offered at the camp to accommodate your child
• Counsellor-to-camper ratios in the case of children with special needs
• How your child would be integrated or supported in the camp program, or how the program is designed to suit your child

Above all: Be upfront and provide complete, accurate and up-to-date information about your child's needs and medical requirements. You want to ensure the camp can adequately accommodate him or her.

If your child has special needs, start your camp search here:
Special needs camps - specialty camps for kids and teens with special needs
Integrated camps - other camps that offer programs for children with special needs