Summer is here! And if you haven’t already made plans for your child, there’s no time to waste.
Earlier this spring, our Funding Assistance Coordinator, Carmella Rynearson, visited Spruce Lake. Spruce Lake is retreat center located in the Poconos and hosts a variety of events and programs year-round for all ages and abilities. Programs include their Family Retreats which are centered on families with children with disabilities and sponsored by Joni & Friends. The facilities are fully accessible, from the bathrooms to the hotel rooms (some even with adjoining rooms for caregivers) to the ziplines equipped with special harnesses for accessibility for all!
This sparked our curiosity… how many summer camps are out there in PA that are truly accessible and inclusive? While we haven’t checked these camps out in person, here are a few links that might provide a jumping off point if you’re looking for some summer fun for your child:
A list of summer camps in the Main Line area of the Philadelphia suburbs.
A list of summer camps across Pennsylvania compiled by VerySpecialCamps.com.
A list of summer camps across Pennsylvania compiled by KidsCamps.com.
A list of camps across Pennsylvania provided by Autism Speaks.
Still not sure? Get other ideas by speaking with your child’s teachers, your local parent support group, and other parents – often word of mouth will unearth the best gems! Local park and recreation departments may also have inclusive summer activities, or disability-specific programs. And, local chapters of major disability organizations are often in-the-know and may be able to provide recommendations about camps in your area. Finally, various community groups, like religious organizations, your local YMCA and Boys and Girls Club may have suggestions for summer fun for your child.
Now get out there and enjoy summer with your child!
Do you have a child with a disability and need help navigating funding options for your child’s assistive technology? We can help! Contact us with your questions.