Camps for Kids with Special Needs

Advice for families and caregivers

Many kids with special needs want to go to overnight or day camp like their friends do. Depending on a child's condition, this may be possible, or not. Children whose special need is mild may be able to attend a regular camp, while those who are more severely affected may be able to attend a special camp. But, of course, first the camp must be carefully looked into to make sure that the environment is safe and nurturing for your child.

Q&A for Special Needs and Special Needs Camp

Summer camp and celiac disease
Summer camp and Down syndrome
Summer camp and epilepsy
Summer camp and FXS
Summer camp and cerebral palsy
Summer camp and autism (Asperger syndrome, mid-level autism, severe autism)

Summer camp and celiac disease

My daughter wants to attend summer camp, but I worry that she will become ill there. Are there any camps where she would be safe?

Kids with celiac disease can attend gluten-free summer camps, where the food they are served will not contain gluten.

Summer camp and Down syndrome

My child wants to attend summer camp. Is there a place that would be appropriate for her?

There are special summer camps for kids with Down syndrome, other year-round camps for people with a variety of special needs, including Down syndrome, and some that focus on therapy and respite care. Look into what is available and see if there is one that you and your daughter feel good about.

Summer camp and epilepsy

My child wants to attend overnight summer camp like her friends do, but I am concerned about her safety. Is there a safe camp I can send her to?

The Epilepsy Foundation works with certain camps to provide a safe environment for kids with epilepsy. In addition, other camps have also been created for kids with epilepsy. Check them out with your child and see if you feel comfortable that any would offer a positive and safe environment for your daughter.

Summer camp and FXS

Is there a summer camp that would be appropriate for my child with fragile X ?

Many camps offer a day-camp experience for people with a variety of developmental disabilities. Check them out and see if one of them feels right for your child. Some kids with FXS have had wonderful experiences at camp.

Summer camp and cerebral palsy

Are there any camps that would be both safe and appropriate for my child with cerebral palsy?

There are many camps that accept children and adults with cerebral palsy. And Easter Seals sponsors a variety of camps for people with different disability levels, including those with cerebral palsy. Try to visit a camp first to make sure it feels appropriate for your child.

Summer camp and autism (Asperger syndrome, mid-level autism, severe autism)

Are there any camps that my child who has autism might enjoy?

A variety of camps have been created for kids with autism and other developmental disabilities, and some just for kids with autism. In addition, some camps provide therapy and respite for kids with various special needs.

How can I find someone to care for my child with special needs?

Care.com is a website that lists caregivers throughout the United States who provide assistance to people with special needs. You can search for caregivers near you and review caregiver profiles including photos, references and background checks, and work history. For specific listings of special needs caregivers, go to Care.com.

Other resources for Special Needs and Special Needs Camp

American Camp Association

Wellsphere on Special Needs Camp

KidsHealth for parents

Find the right special needs caregiver for your family.