Did you know that there are special-needs camps offering a range of services that meet the needs of children with specific physical, emotional, behavioral or medical challenges? Some of these camps focus on children with cancer or other medical conditions; others have programs for children with autism or attention deficit disorder.
The first time your son or daughter goes to summer camp is a big step - for you and your child. Fortunately, with so many different summer camps from which to choose, you have a better chance to find the best fit. “I think every camp has its own personality,” says Catherine Ross, communications officer with the Canadian Camping Association. “The program, location, the style and philosophy of the director - all can give an idea of the type of camp that’s best for the child.”
To many people, summer camp for kids might appear like nothing more than fun and games. However, a study conducted in the past few years support what camp directors have been saying for decades: Camp is a setting for positive youth development where invaluable life skills are acquired and nurtured.
“Mom, you forgot to pack extra socks,” says my 10-year-old son accusingly. We have just picked him up after a week at camp. Socks, I muse, mentally searching through the gear I had packed over a week ago. I remembered making an extra trip to the store for the hiking socks requested on the camp list. Had I not packed them? “Do you mean the hiking socks?” I inquire.
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