Special needs overnight camps. Comprehensive Guide to Special Needs Overnight Summer Camps in New York

What are the best special needs overnight summer camps in New York. How do these camps cater to children with various disabilities. What activities and programs do they offer. How can parents choose the right camp for their child with special needs.

Types of Special Needs Camps: Tailoring Experiences for Every Child

Special needs overnight camps in New York offer a diverse range of programs tailored to children with various disabilities and conditions. These camps provide unique opportunities for children to experience the joys of summer camp while receiving specialized care and support. Let’s explore the different types of camps available:

• ADHD summer camps
• Sleepaway camps for children with autism
• Summer camps for blind students
• Grief camps for kids and teens
• Camps for children with developmental disabilities
• Summer programs for kids with learning disabilities
• Diabetes summer camps
• Summer camps for kids with cancer
• Down Syndrome camps
• Camps for deaf children
• Respite summer camps

Each of these camps is designed to address the specific needs of its target group, ensuring that every child can have a safe, enjoyable, and enriching summer camp experience.

Benefits of Special Needs Overnight Camps: Fostering Growth and Independence

Special needs overnight camps offer numerous benefits for children with disabilities. These camps provide a supportive environment where children can develop new skills, build self-confidence, and foster independence. But what specific advantages do these camps offer?

• Specialized care and support from trained staff
• Opportunities for social interaction with peers facing similar challenges
• Adaptive activities that cater to various abilities
• A chance to experience independence in a safe environment
• Development of life skills and self-advocacy
• Respite for parents and caregivers
• Improved self-esteem and confidence

By participating in these camps, children with special needs can gain valuable experiences that contribute to their personal growth and overall well-being.

Choosing the Right Camp: Factors to Consider for Your Child’s Needs

Selecting the appropriate special needs overnight camp for your child requires careful consideration of several factors. How can parents make an informed decision? Consider the following aspects when evaluating potential camps:

1. Specific accommodations for your child’s disability
2. Staff qualifications and training
3. Camper-to-staff ratio
4. Available medical support and facilities
5. Range of activities and programs offered
6. Camp philosophy and approach to inclusion
7. Safety measures and emergency protocols
8. Communication policies with parents
9. Cost and financial aid options

It’s crucial to thoroughly research each camp and communicate directly with camp directors to ensure they can meet your child’s specific needs and provide a safe, enjoyable experience.

Popular Special Needs Overnight Camps in New York: A Closer Look

New York boasts several renowned special needs overnight camps that have earned a reputation for excellence in their programs and care. While specific camp names are not provided in the original text, we can explore the general characteristics of popular camps in the area:

• Camps with a focus on autism spectrum disorders
• Inclusive camps that integrate children with and without disabilities
• Specialized medical camps for children with chronic illnesses
• Camps designed for children with sensory processing disorders
• Adventure camps adapted for children with physical disabilities

These camps often feature state-of-the-art facilities, highly trained staff, and innovative programs designed to meet the diverse needs of their campers.

Activities and Programs: Engaging Experiences for All Abilities

Special needs overnight camps in New York offer a wide array of activities and programs adapted to accommodate various disabilities. What types of activities can campers expect to enjoy?

• Adaptive sports and recreation (swimming, horseback riding, archery)
• Arts and crafts tailored to different ability levels
• Music and drama therapy sessions
• Nature exploration and environmental education
• Life skills workshops (cooking, personal care, social skills)
• Sensory-friendly activities for children with sensory processing issues
• Therapeutic programs (occupational therapy, speech therapy)
• Technology and computer skills classes
• Meditation and mindfulness practices

These activities are designed to be inclusive and adaptable, ensuring that every camper can participate and benefit from the camp experience.

Staff Training and Qualifications: Ensuring Expert Care and Support

The quality of care provided at special needs overnight camps largely depends on the training and qualifications of the staff. How do camps ensure their staff are prepared to meet the unique needs of their campers?

• Rigorous hiring processes to select experienced and compassionate individuals
• Comprehensive pre-camp training on various disabilities and appropriate care techniques
• Ongoing professional development throughout the camp season
• Collaboration with medical professionals and therapists
• Specialized training in crisis intervention and behavior management
• Certification in first aid, CPR, and medication administration

Many camps also maintain a low camper-to-staff ratio to ensure individualized attention and support for each child.

Financial Considerations: Making Camp Accessible for All Families

The cost of special needs overnight camps can be a significant concern for many families. How do camps address this issue and make their programs more accessible?

• Early bird registration discounts
• Multiple camper discounts for families sending more than one child
• Scholarships and financial aid programs
• Sliding scale fees based on family income
• Partnerships with charitable organizations to provide funding
• Assistance with insurance coverage for medically necessary programs

Families are encouraged to inquire about these options directly with the camps they are interested in, as financial assistance programs can vary widely between different camps.

Preparing Your Child for Camp: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Attending an overnight camp can be a significant step for children with special needs. How can parents help prepare their children for this experience?

1. Discuss the camp experience in advance, using social stories or visual aids if helpful
2. Practice independence skills at home (dressing, personal hygiene, etc.)
3. Arrange a pre-camp visit or virtual tour to familiarize your child with the environment
4. Pack comfort items from home (favorite toy, blanket, photos)
5. Establish a communication plan with the camp staff
6. Prepare detailed information about your child’s needs, routines, and preferences
7. Discuss coping strategies for homesickness or anxiety

By taking these steps, parents can help ensure a smoother transition and a more enjoyable camp experience for their child.

Year-Round Programs: Extending the Benefits Beyond Summer

Many special needs camps in New York offer year-round programs to provide ongoing support and engagement for children with disabilities. What types of programs are available outside of the summer months?

• Weekend respite camps
• Holiday-themed day programs
• After-school activities and classes
• Family retreat weekends
• Virtual programs and online communities
• Seasonal events and reunions for campers

These year-round offerings allow children to maintain connections with friends and continue developing skills throughout the year.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Special Needs Camps: Adaptations and Safety Measures

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated significant changes in the operation of special needs overnight camps. How have camps adapted to ensure the safety of their campers and staff?

• Enhanced cleaning and sanitization protocols
• Reduced capacity to allow for social distancing
• Mandatory mask-wearing and hand hygiene practices
• Outdoor activities prioritized over indoor ones
• Virtual camp options for families not comfortable with in-person attendance
• Health screenings and testing procedures for campers and staff
• Modified dining arrangements to reduce close contact

Camps continue to adapt their policies and procedures in line with the latest health guidelines to provide a safe environment for all participants.

The Role of Therapy in Special Needs Camps: Integrating Support into Fun

Many special needs overnight camps incorporate therapeutic elements into their programs. How do these camps balance fun activities with necessary therapies and support?

• Occupational therapy integrated into daily camp activities
• Speech therapy sessions disguised as group games and performances
• Physical therapy through adaptive sports and outdoor adventures
• Art and music therapy as part of creative expression activities
• Social skills development through structured group interactions
• Behavioral therapy techniques applied in natural camp settings

This integrated approach allows children to receive necessary therapeutic support while fully enjoying the camp experience.

Building Lasting Friendships: The Social Benefits of Special Needs Camps

One of the most valuable aspects of special needs overnight camps is the opportunity for children to form lasting friendships. How do these camps facilitate social connections among campers?

• Structured group activities that encourage teamwork and cooperation
• Buddy systems pairing campers for mutual support
• Social skills workshops and role-playing exercises
• Shared living spaces that foster bonding and communication
• Evening campfire gatherings and storytelling sessions
• Group challenges and problem-solving activities

These social experiences can have a profound impact on campers, often leading to friendships that extend far beyond the camp season.

Technology in Special Needs Camps: Enhancing Communication and Learning

Advancements in technology have opened up new possibilities for special needs camps. How are camps incorporating technology to enhance the camp experience?

• Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices for non-verbal campers
• Virtual reality experiences for children with mobility limitations
• Adaptive gaming systems for inclusive recreational activities
• Apps and software for skill-building and educational purposes
• Video calling for keeping in touch with family during camp
• Wearable devices for monitoring health metrics of campers with medical needs

These technological tools help create a more inclusive and engaging environment for all campers, regardless of their abilities.

Parent Involvement: Staying Connected During Camp

For many parents, sending a child with special needs to overnight camp can be anxiety-inducing. How do camps keep parents informed and involved during their child’s stay?

• Regular updates via email or secure online portals
• Photo and video sharing of camp activities
• Scheduled phone or video call times with campers
• Daily logs or reports on camper progress and experiences
• Parent workshops and support groups during camp sessions
• End-of-camp presentations or performances for families

These communication strategies help alleviate parental concerns and allow families to feel connected to their child’s camp experience.

Evaluating Camp Success: Measuring Outcomes and Growth

Assessing the impact of special needs overnight camps is crucial for both families and camp administrators. How do camps evaluate the success of their programs and the growth of individual campers?

• Pre- and post-camp assessments of skills and behaviors
• Surveys and feedback sessions with campers and parents
• Observations and reports from camp staff and specialists
• Long-term follow-up studies on camper outcomes
• Analysis of goal achievement for individualized camp plans
• Testimonials and success stories from past participants

These evaluation methods help camps continually improve their programs and demonstrate the tangible benefits of the camp experience for children with special needs.

The Future of Special Needs Camps: Trends and Innovations

As understanding of various disabilities grows and societal attitudes evolve, special needs overnight camps continue to innovate. What trends are shaping the future of these camps?

• Increased focus on inclusivity and integration with typically developing peers
• Expansion of programs for transition-age youth and young adults
• Incorporation of cutting-edge assistive technologies
• Development of specialized programs for emerging diagnoses and needs
• Greater emphasis on environmental sustainability and nature connection
• Collaboration with research institutions to study camp impacts

These trends reflect a commitment to continual improvement and adaptation to meet the evolving needs of campers and their families.

Welcome to Best Special Needs Camps .com | 2023 Special Needs Summer Camps Directory

Welcome to

Our Summer 2023 Special Needs Camp Directory will include information on some of the Best Day and Overnight Special Needs Summer Camps in America, including:

• ADHD summer camps

• Sleepaway Camps for children with autism

• Summer camps for blind students

• Grief camps for kids and teens

• Camps for kids and teens with developmental disabilities

• Summer programs for kids with learning disabilities

• Diabetes summer camps

• Summer camps for kids with cancer

• Summer programs for special needs children

• Down Syndrome camps

• Camps for deaf children

• Respite summer camps, and many other summer programs and camps for kids and teens with special needs.

Best 2023 Special-Needs Summer Camps

Many of our Special-Needs Camps are still adding to their info on their 2023 Summer Camps, Programs, Activities & Classes.

You can contact each camp you are interested in to get the latest info on all their 2023 Summer Special-Needs Programs for Teens and Kids.

Early-Bird & Multiple Camper Discounts at Special-Needs Camps for Summer 2023

Some of the Best 2023 Special-Needs Camps offer “Early Bird” and/or Multiple Camper Discounts if you enroll in camp before a certain date, or if you are enrolling more than one camper — check each camp’s listing & website for more info, and for info on any available Special-Needs Camp Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Summer Special-Needs Camps, Programs, Workshops, & Classes are Starting in July, 2023

Many of our Special-Needs Camps offer Summer Special-Needs Programs, Activities, Workshops & Classes starting in July, 2023.

Be sure to check the “Year-Round Programs and Other Camp Info” headings of each camp listing for specifics, or give any Special-Needs Camp you’re interested in a call to check on Summer dates, times and availability.

Summer 2023 Special-Needs Camp Open Houses & Reunions

Many of our Special-Needs Camps will be hosting Summer Reunions for their previous campers, and Summer Open Houses for interested new campers and families. Each camp is different, and some offer activities for the entire family.

Contact the camp(s) directly to see if there are any Camp Reunion or Open House Plans for July, 2023.

Best Summer Special-Needs Day Camps Starting in July, 2023

Looking for a Great Special-Needs Day Camp? Look at each camp’s TYPE OF CAMP description. Many of our Best Day Special-Needs Camps also list their exact hours, and if they offer before and after camp activities.

Best Year-Round
Special-Needs Camps, Classes & Special-Needs Programs

Many of our Best Summer Special-Needs Camps also offer Year Round Special-Needs Camp Programs, Classes, and Activities. You should contact the camps you are interested in to see if they offer Fall, Winter and/or Spring Special-Needs Programs, too.

Best Summer Special-Needs Camp Jobs

Searching for Special-Needs Camp Jobs? Many of our Best Special-Needs Camps are now listing their 2023 Summer Camp Jobs, too. Look for the heading “Summer Camp Jobs” in each camp listing. You can also check any camp’s website for their “Work at Camp” or “Summer Employment Opportunities” pages.

There are some wonderful summer camps and summer programs out there for kids and teens with physical, learning and developmental special needs, where they can have fun every day in an active and caring summer camp environment.

Many private summer camps have been designed around the special needs and disabilities of their campers. For instance, there are special needs summer camps specifically for children with amputations, or diabetes, or for campers who have some form of cancer. Some of these camps have doctors and/or nurses on staff.

Other camps take a more adaptive or “Inclusive” approach for special needs campers, providing special access, equipment, sessions or programs for campers with special needs, but otherwise operating as a traditional day or overnight summer camp. In many of these camps special needs campers participate along side of the non-special needs campers in many or even most of the camp activities.

Parents need to talk with each camp IN DEPTH to make sure they offer exactly the right program and facilities for their special needs camper.

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP OWNERS & DIRECTORS: If you would like to submit your camp for listing in our 2023 Best Summer Special-Needs Camps Directory, please click on the “SUBMIT YOUR CAMP” link above.

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP PARENTS & CAMPERS: If you are looking to find info on how to choose the best summer camp to attend this summer, please check out our 2023 GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE BEST SUMMER SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP for some great camp research tips and lots of important 2023 summer camp info.

In addition to our 2023 Summer Special-Needs Camps Directory we have also created quite a few SPECIAL INTEREST CAMP DIRECTORIES, and have included brief descriptions of these and links to their dedicated websites on the 2023 CAMP GUIDE page.

You can go directly to any of our other 2023 Special Interest Camp Directories from the list in the black bar at the bottom of this page.

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7 Summer Camps for Kids and Teens With Autism in the Hudson Valley

Adobe Stock | Photo by katya_naumova

Kids with special needs from Westchester up to Albany will love crafting, creating, and playing at these summer programs.

With the end of the school year fast approaching, now is the golden hour to get summer camps booked. After all, it’s only a matter of time before the kids are home for good.

For families with children with autism, finalizing summer plans can be an extra challenge, especially when it comes to finding programs that are just as fun as they are supportive. Luckily, the Hudson Valley and Westchester are packed to the brim with options.

Browse through our list to find the perfect fit for your little one this summer.

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P.S. Did we miss a spot? Email us at [email protected] so we can add it!

Camp Ramapo

Kids can roam free across Camp Ramapo’s 250-acre campus in Rhinebeck. Ramapo works with children affected by social, emotional, and learning challenges to build relationships, improve self-confidence, and have fun.

 

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Uniquely, the camp maintains a 1:1 staff to camper ratio, which means each child gets hands-on attention. There is also a teen leadership program for 14- to 21-year-olds who seek to gain more independence and responsibilities.

Rhinebeck; 845.876.8403
Type: Residential
Length: Varied, one- to nine-week session options

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Camp Warwick

Camp Sunrise—Camp Warwick’s programming for individuals with special needs—caters to people ages 8 to 55. Each session runs for five days in June or July. During that time, campers test out a variety of community activities, such as hiking, bowling, dancing, and even a talent show! Campers can also look forward to a visit to Wawayanda State Park and a drive-in movie.

Warwick; 845.986.1164
Type: Residential
Length: One week

Camp Spectacular

Though the Clover Patch Camp’s sleepaway program has been suspended due to the coronavirus, its day camp for youths with autism spectrum disorders, Camp Spectacular, is currently accepting applications for the summer 2022 program. The camp maintains a 2:1 camper to counselor ratio and aims to “appeal to individual interests” and “improve self-confidence, collaborative skills, social skills, and problem solving.”

Glenville; 518.437.5700
Type: Day camp
Length: Five days for residential session or four days for commuter session

Club Aspire

As part of Greystone Programs’ autism support initiatives, Club Aspire extends its afterschool support into a summer break event for kids ages 6 to 21. Youths in Ulster and Orange Counties can spend the dog days of summer having the time of their lives. Campers can learn money and time management skills, along with arts and crafts, dancing, cooking, and music.

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Warwick; 845.469.3760
Type: Commuter
Length: One week sessions

Club COOL

The Dutchess County branch of Greystone Programs offers its summer break extension for boys and girls ages 6 to 21. Children receive individualized assistance and learn about self-care, money, time management, safety, and social skills.

Wappingers Falls; 845.452.5772
Type: Commuter
Length: One week sessions

North East Westchester Special Recreation

Open to children and teens ages four to 20 and boasting a 1:3 staff ratio, the North East Westchester Special Recreation Summer Day Camp divides campers into supportive groups based on independence levels. The days are divided into four activity sessions in the morning, followed by breaks for lunch, swimming, and one afternoon activity.

Briarcliff Manor; 914.347.4409
Type: Commuter
Length: Six weeks

Camp Reece at Skidmore College

This summer camp focuses on children with autism and special needs who are ages 10 to 17, with a setting that allows for character development and encourages social and emotional growth through fun programming that fosters new friendships.

 

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Campers are encouraged to try activities among the art, sports, and adventure programs before they choose what to specialize in during their time at camp.

Saratoga Springs; 212.289.4872
Type: Residential
Length: 3 or 6 weeks

Related: A Historic Autism Awareness Initiative Is Unveiled in Rhinebeck 

Summer camps for children in Portugal WithPortugal

Summer camps in Portugal are a traditional summer option for children and young people. From surfing to learning a new language, summer camps offer a wide range of activities that, in addition to memorable moments of relaxation and fun, can also be an experience of cultural enrichment and personal growth. So, if you have kids between the ages of 6 and 20, summer camps can be a great plan for the summer and beyond (as they also run during the fall and Easter school holidays).

In Portugal, school ends at the beginning of June and the new school year does not start until mid-September. That is, for almost 3.5 months, children are left to their own devices. Family summer vacations are fun, but unfortunately parental vacations can’t always be that long, so adults almost always have to work most of the time while the kids are out of school. That is why we went to explore the existing options throughout the country, while there is still some time to choose something to our liking and book a place on the required dates.

Vacation camps allow your children to experience other places, see unusual landscapes, discover new cultures and traditions, develop good habits, taste food from different regions and make friends. The main areas that you can try to offer children for the summer are horse riding, rock climbing or skydiving, as well as boat trips. There are also programs specializing in languages, painting, drama, and even astronomy. Sports camps offer children to try out sports such as football, surfing, volleyball, tennis and even board games. The scenario of such camps can be very diverse: from spending a few days on the beach, exploring the city or camping in the middle of nature.

Holiday programs are designed not only for babies, but also for teenagers, including. For young people there is also a fairly large selection of holiday camps in Portugal, their idea is to allow young people to experience new places while acquiring and improving physical, social, intellectual, cultural and emotional skills. There is a place for dancing, singing, playing musical instruments and writing, as well as playing sports or mastering computer technology.

I offer you a short overview of the most interesting summer activities for your children from the north to the south of Portugal: sports, music, theater and even communication with animals.

Lisbon Zoo Vacation (ATLdoZoo) – Lisboa

This day camp is for children aged 6 to 16, where they interact with zookeepers, trainers and technicians, as well as visit “behind the scenes” of some animals that live in it (if suddenly you can’t use this camp in the summer, you always have the Christmas or Easter holidays to try).

Introduce your child to the arts at the Bocage Theater ( ATLF érias noBocage ) – Lisboa 900 03

If your child is completely into the arts, then ATL at the Bocage Theater is what you need: weekly daycare programs for children aged 5 to 15 will provide an opportunity to learn the basics of acting, which always ends with a gala show of graduates, where they can share their achievements with their parents.

Digital Summer Edurumos – Lisboa

Of course, the main educational motivation of parents is not to get their children hooked on technology and gadgets, but what if this happens in an educational way? If you like this idea, then “Digital Summer” at Edurumos is a day camp type summer activity solution. There are courses for children from 7 to 16 years old, including programming, photography, animation, Youtube, comics, Microsoft Office programs and video games.

Oceanário: rest ” underwater ” ( Férias debaixo de água ) – 9001 8 Lisboa

What if the kids go underwater for 10 days? a program for children aged 4 to 12 with lots of hands-on activities to see fish and marine animals up close, go canoeing, discover the mysteries of the ocean and learn more about conservation

9 campos de férias ‘The Inventors’ Porto , Leiria , Oeiras – Funchal

Inventor Camps invite kids to create games and expand their knowledge of coding, robotics, and 3D modeling.0003

Knowledge Pavilion: Educational Holidays ( Pavilhão do Conhecimento ) – Lisboa

The Knowledge Pavilion’s summer activities for children aged 6 to 12 are great. We heard that during the day camp, you can make chocolate, blue cheese and also reproduce dinosaur claws and teeth.

Holiday Campo Aventura ( Campo Aventura ) – Obidos

You can choose one or two weeks in the style of a holiday camp, but in any case an active adventure is guaranteed. Campo Aventura Junior Resort is located in Obidos and offers a variety of activities such as paintball, laser shooting, inflatable rides, swimming pools, rock climbing, slides and surfing.

Give your child the chance to be a rock star at the Estrela Music Summer Camp ( Estrela Music Summer Camp ) – Guarda

This summer camp is waiting for young musicians to experience, play, live and learn music during the summer. The program includes several summer concerts, lots of fun and new knowledge – this summer camp is a unique experience.

Fully immersive adventure in My Camp – Cartaxo

Cartaxo My Camp promises to be a good place to leave the kids for the holidays. There are more than 100 activities in the area of ​​10 hectares, including sea sports, rope park, 3G swings, horseback riding, slides, rock climbing, diving, inflatable rides, night games and even a private water park.

Musical holidays in DanceSpot – Lisboa

This is a good idea for kids who have been dancing all their lives or dreaming of being in theater productions. DanceSpot is a school with several activities for children and adults – from performing arts to street dancing, during the summer months it offers weeks of free time dedicated to dance and music. The idea behind their signature Musical Kids program is that every day is filled with hip hop, modern dance, tap, jazz, singing or percussion, set design and costume design, with the aim of making a presentation in the form of a musical for parents at the end of each week. where children will show all their talents that they have developed during the week. The camp accepts children from 3 to 12 years old.

Pony Club ( PonyClubdoPorto ) – Porto

Once again this summer, the Pony Club in Porto will open its doors to a summer camp where children aged 5 to 14 years old can ride ponies, take care of follow them, play with them and take walks accompanied by specially trained staff. Classes are complemented by capoeira lessons, craft workshops, reading fairy tales, experiments in the gardens of the equestrian center. A good choice for those who want to provide their children with days spent in contact with nature and animals, developing mutual assistance, tolerance and respect without prejudice.

Surf Aventura in Matosinhos

Surf Aventura Summer Camp is a beachfront holiday camp with a wide range of sports activities ranging from surf lessons and bodyboarding to volleyball, football, rugby, beach racquets, ping pong, traditional games , adventures in Porto City Park and even a pizza making class. The program is very flexible, it offers a choice of morning or afternoon, as well as the whole day, from Monday to Friday, with or without lunch, designed for children from 6 to 16 years old.

The magic of musicals in Escola de Musicais EDSAE – Lisboa

During the summer holidays EDSAE, pioneer school in teaching musical theater and in Portugal, offers 10 intensive weeks of free time in June – August with different weekly themes devoted to musical theater and dance (Choreographic studio), for ages 6 to 9 and 10 to 15 years. The structure of the musical theater program “Magic of Musicals” is based on three main disciplines: dance, singing and acting, and the dance program “Choreographic Workshop” combines the styles of urban dances and dances from Broadway. At the end of each week, both programs include a presentation of the work done. The younger ones rehearse themes like Rapunzel, The Lion King, Frozen and The Return of Mary Poppins, while the older ones rehearse musicals like Bohemian Rhapsody, High School Musical or Mamma Mia.

Invite your child to go on an adventure in the park Diverlanhoso – Braga

Located in Póvoa de Lanhoso, next to the Peneda do Gerês National Park, in Braga, Diverlanhoso is one of the largest adventure parks in the country. It offers more than 50 adventure sports and nature activities (such as downhill skiing, soft rafting, canyoning, rock climbing, rappelling, suspension bridges, overnight camping), log cabin accommodation, a swimming pool, multifunctional spaces and a panoramic restaurant. This outdoor adventure camp is a way for kids and teens of all ages (ages 6 to 18) to get out of their comfort zone, make new friendships and gain more self-reliance, self-respect and independence.

Sports holidays with GO fit CAMP – Lisboa

GO fit CAMP is the Gofit Gym Summer Camp program in Lisbon. The goal of the program is to instill a taste for physical activity and sports as the main means of forming a healthy lifestyle. The weekly programs include various water activities (outdoors and indoors), participation in team games (basketball, hockey, handball, futsal, rugby tag), martial arts, as well as games and crafts that promote camaraderie and such installations, as respect for other people and the environment, tolerance, pluralism, personal freedom and solidarity. GO fit CAMP is divided into three age groups: group A (from 3 to 6 years old), group B (from 7 to 10 years old) and group C ( 11 to 15 years old).

Holidays – « Back to Serralves » – Férias em Serralves – Porto

This camp has already become a classic for those who lives in Porto – a program of entertaining and educational workshops aimed at children and adolescents aged 4 to 12 years. In contact with the Museum of Modern Art, the park and the farm, children are encouraged to explore these spaces by participating in activities that value curiosity and creativity, experimentation and group experience. For several weeks (morning and/or afternoon) there are various thematic seminars (which can be found on the website) offering tasks in the field of plastic arts, experimental sciences, movement, self-expression, ecology, art and culture. In parallel, the Foundation also organizes equestrian initiation courses in partnership with the riding school of the Equestrian Center of Porto and Matusinhos, in the Prado and/or on the Serralves estate.

All of the above programs are paid, the cost varies from about 100 to 250 euros per week (or a shift of 10 days), depending on whether the camp is with accommodation or only a day stay, as well as the intensity of the program. If you still cannot afford such entertainment, do not despair – in Portugal there are several state children’s camps that offer various programs for children of different ages at a more affordable price, sometimes a symbolic fee (since the state takes on most of the expenses). Here are some of them:

• Camp “Colónia de Férias do INATEL” – offers programs for children from 6 to 15 years old. The program includes various sports, games and creative activities. Several points in Portugal, but the main one is in Porto.
• Camp “Colónia de Férias do IPDJ” is a camp located in the city of Coimbra. It offers programs for children from 6 to 18 years old. The program includes various sports, games and creative activities.
• Camp “Colónia de Férias da Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa” is a camp located in Lisbon. It offers programs for children from 6 to 16 years old, which include a variety of sports, games and creative activities.
• Camp “Colónia de Férias da Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa” is another camp in Lisbon. In terms of the content of the programs and the age of the children accepted, it is completely similar to the previous one.
• Camp “Colónia de Férias da Câmara Municipal de Lisboa” – also a typical camp for Lisbon – age of children from 6 to 16 years, multi-directional activities.

As a rule, public children’s camps in Portugal offer low-cost programs that include accommodation, meals and activities. However, places in such camps may be limited, so it is recommended to contact the camp in advance and reserve a place for your child. By the way, in more or less large cities, municipalities (Câmara Municipal) open camps for children for the holidays, so this is probably the first place you need to go to find out about summer holidays for your child. In most large camps, the site has the ability to check the availability of places, the cost is immediately presented and the ability to immediately enroll the child in the desired shift. In some establishments, this may not be the case, so all issues will have to be resolved by phone or e-mail, although knowing the pathological unwillingness of the Portuguese to respond to mail in a timely manner, it would be better to go in person.

In Portugal, everything related to vacations is called leisure activities or Actividades Tempos Livres (ATL for short), also called camps for short. So for searching on the Internet, in addition to the phrase “campos de férias”, you can also use “ATL” in combination with the name of your city or region.

In Portugal there is an organization called the Portuguese Institute of Sports and Youth – O Instituto Português do Desporto e Juventude, I.P. (IPDJ), whose mission is to implement a comprehensive sports and youth policy in close cooperation with public and private entities, namely sports organizations, youth and student associations and local authorities. Vacation camps are also under their jurisdiction, based on the list of those registered as such – you can also pick up something for your child in your area (there, by the way, are the email addresses of the departments separately for the regions of Portugal.

For children with special needs, Portugal also has activities for children’s holidays. AAMA organizes 3 summer camps for 60 children and young people to have a sporting holiday tailored to their needs, with ongoing personalized support from a supervisor for each participant. Camp Abilities Portugal, indoor summer camp and outdoor summer camp. Camp Abilities is an adaptation of the American model of summer camps for visually impaired young people with individual support. An innovative factor is that children and young people without disabilities act as observers. The mission of this camp is to include children with various special needs in sports activities. Two main tasks are solved here: on the one hand, to give participants with disabilities to try themselves in various sports, in a safe environment, in the company of peers. On the other hand, give young people without disabilities the opportunity to interact with people with visual impairments and help them so that they can gain a more positive understanding of their abilities and better understand their integration into society. Here, perhaps for the first time in their lives, they will be able to engage in activities such as diving, boating, boxing, athletics, football, capoeira, judo and even surfing. The open and closed summer camp programs are free-form programs for children and young people with global developmental disabilities, autism spectrum, any other type of disability or special needs.

I hope that the article will be useful for moms and dads in Portugal, and that the children will have a wonderful and useful summer vacation. On the eve of the summer holidays and vacations, I wish everyone wonderful weather (it’s good that there are no problems with it in Portugal) and a great mood. I want to remind everyone that our portal is not only educational and entertaining, but also very useful and applied. Pay attention to our specialists who are always ready to provide services and advice in their fields, both for those who are just planning to immigrate to Portugal, and for those who already live here: accountant, lawyer, translator and real estate agent.

From the history of the children’s camp movement

Category: Interesting.

Torshin V.N., Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the Vozhatiy magazine

We are starting to publish a series of essays on the history of the children’s camp movement in the world, including Russia. But if in our country the first children’s camps (then scouts) recently celebrated their centenary, then the very first children’s recreation camps appeared more than a century and a half ago. And it was in the United States of America.

The more interesting will be the comparison: what was then and what is now; as it was with them, and as with us.

“The camp is a camping bivouac, a temporary stop on the eternal path of movement. Moreover, this is a forest bivouac. The camp is remembered for a lifetime by images of swaying pine trees, birds singing, sunrises and sunsets, a night fire, morning fishing. The camp is the natural sovereign territory of the child, where he realizes himself as a person.

S.A. Shmakov

We plan to publish several papers on this topic, and we start with an analysis of the experience of the US camps. Firstly, the first children’s camps appeared in America, and most of all the number of out-of-town stationary camps is currently there. Secondly, in our opinion, in this country today there is the most perfect system of organization and management of camps, which is carried out by the American Association of Camps. We will describe its activities in sufficient detail, especially since this work experience can be used in Russia.

For many decades in our country a fairly perfect and powerful system of organizing recreation and health improvement of children in out-of-town children’s camps has been created. Of course, in many ways it is very specific, as it was heavily ideologized and politicized. Nevertheless, almost every year the number of camps increased, their material and technical base was strengthened, the system of training and retraining of teaching staff working in the camps was improved, theoretical and methodological support was constantly increased, forms and methods of work were improved. But, perhaps, the main events of the camp movement of the last century were the opening of such All-Union camps as Artek, Orlyonok and Okean. For the camps throughout the country, they have become a serious methodological and practical help. The author of these lines was most directly related to the Artek All-Union Pioneer Camp, having worked there for about 10 years: first as the head of one of the camps, and then as deputy head of the Main Directorate for Science and Education. Based on personal experience, it can be argued that the traditions of the camp movement in Russia allow us to hope that, despite the crisis that currently exists in the system of organizing recreation and recreation for children, in the coming years, children’s camps will begin to develop and strengthen. And now there are a number of country camps that continue to function successfully and move forward.

But, unfortunately, in general, the camp movement in our country today is not quite in the normal situation. Since 2000, 100–200 out-of-town camps have closed annually. And many active camps have serious financial problems, which means problems with the development of the material base, human resources and, in principle, with the future existence. One of the reasons for the numerous problems, we are sure, lies in the absence of a real control center for Russian camps.

In our opinion, the main problems in the system of organizing children’s recreation and health improvement of children are as follows:

– lack of definition of the concept of “camp” common for all;

– blurring the very idea of ​​the camp;

– imperfection of the legislative framework;

– lack of a centralized system for advanced training, training and retraining of management personnel;

– weak material base;

– lack of legal support;

– lack of modern scientific and methodological literature.

For the time being, we will focus only on this. We will analyze in more detail the current situation with the camps in our country in the next collection, which will be devoted to the experience of the camps in the Russian Federation. In future issues, we will introduce readers to the camps in Canada, Great Britain, Greece, Bulgaria, Australia, Macedonia and other countries of the world.

History of the camp movement in the USA

America’s camp movement began over 140 years ago. The camp that can be seen now has deep historical roots. Much has changed in the life of society since then, leisure opportunities have changed, clothing, music and much more have changed, but the camp has remained a place for children where they can combine recovery, hardening with cognitive and exciting activities.

1861 – Camp Gunnery was established, which is considered the first American camp. Frederick Gunn and his wife, Abigail, have set up “schools at home” for boys in Washington and Connecticut. They organized two-week trips for these children. The children sailed on boats, fished and learned to navigate the terrain. The idea was so successful that the Gunn family continued the tradition for 12 years.

1874 – the first camp of the children’s and youth organization YWCA is founded. It was organized in Philadelphia and was called the “Vacation Project”. It was a stationary house located in a park area where children could spend their holidays with meals and accommodation. The camp was called “Rest by the Sea”.

1876 – Joseph Trimble founded the first private camp (Pennsylvania). It was called “School of Physical Culture”. For $200, boys from the cities of Philadelphia and Wilkes-Bare could come and spend 4 months here (starting from summer), gaining health, acquiring practical skills outside the school walls.

1885 – the first camp of the youth organization YMCA is established. F. Dudley and seven guys went on an organized hike in the Newber, New York area. By 1891, 83 people had already participated in the campaigns.

1900 – The first boys’ club camp opens in Salem, Massachusetts. It was a seven-week program in which 76 boys took part.

1910 – The American Camp Association (AAL), originally called the Camp Directors Association of America, was formed. The founder was Alan Williams, who laid the standards for an organized camp for children and youth. From 1935 The Association has its current name.

1910 Boy Scouts founded. The organization’s first official camp was held in Lake George, New York. In the same year, Dr. Luther Gulik founded the camp “Bonfire” for girls. In 1914 there were already 500 girls in it.

1912 – The first Girl Scout camp opens in Savannah, Georgia. Since the inception of the Girl Scouting movement, the camp has played a large role in its program of activities. At 19In 22, the organization decided to organize camps throughout the country.

1926 – A bulletin for camp directors was created. Camp Magazine is the official publication of the American Camp Association, under the direction of the National Board of Directors. The purpose of the publication is to inform and educate camp workers and other persons interested in promoting the camp business. Since 1930, the magazine has had the current name “Journal for Camps”.

In the 1930s, the National Wildlife Service took over the development of a recreational area as part of a federal government project. The completed 34 places for camps could be taken on a long-term lease. These territories later became state.

1948 – The American Camp Association approves the Standards that form the basis of camp accreditation. The standards are legally binding. They include 300 items regulating the activities of the camp. Since 1955, the official office of the Association is Bradford Woods in Indiana.

1996 – At the national level, the emphasis is not on the number of children in the camp, but on what gives each child the experience of being in the camp. Research is being carried out to study the effectiveness of raising children in the camp, a program is being developed that contains forty aspects describing activities that positively affect the child, which helps to educate a healthy generation, caring and responsible individuals. From 1997 The American Camp Association begins to integrate educational aspects of developing and educating the younger generation into all camp activities.

1998 – The New York Public Schools Network, the largest public school system, takes the initiative to include camp in its educational plan. This year-round educational program adds 28 days of non-traditional learning during the summer and other school holidays. In the same year, changes are made to the Camp Standards, taking into account the year-round nature of the camps. Many camps work in partnership with schools as part of their educational program.

2001-2004 – The American Camp Association conducts a state-of-the-art camp survey with a national grant.

2005 – The Association creates an information site for parents in English and Spanish.

2008 – In America there are more than 12,000 camps of various types, with different duration of shifts, different sources of funding, different forms of ownership, different pedagogical programs. About 8,000 camps are run by public organizations, including youth agencies and religious communities, 4,000 are privately owned by independent commercial organizations. Of the 12,000 US camps, 7,000 are permanent camps and 5,000 are day camps.

Every summer, more than 10 million children and adults use the services of this type of organization of recreation and recreation, and at the same time educational activities. Summer camps for children, youth and families are run by professionals, paid staff and volunteers. As a rule, camps are located in suburban or rural areas. Day camps can be located in park areas.

In America’s camps, priority is given to the constant improvement of pedagogical programs that take into account all modern trends in the development of society and the modern needs of children. And it’s justified. As a sociological survey of American families showed, parents clearly believe that an interesting program and safety are the most important things in the camp. Traditionally, a number of outdoor activities are held in the camps. These are hiking, swimming, sports and outdoor games, arts and crafts and painting, environmental and environmental affairs. According to a survey conducted by the American Camp Association, 75% of directors have added new camp activities to their plans. So 90% of the camps included swimming, 50% included extreme and adventure programs, 45% of the camps have a base for learning to ride. The most common activities are rock climbing, sheer wall climbing, hiking, mountain biking, go-karting, snowboarding, cave exploration. A significant place in the camps is given to sports and outdoor games. Conditions for practicing more than 30 sports have been created. A good material base has been created for each sport. Water sports are widespread. Interest in painting, applied and performing arts has also increased, such activities as: choreography, theater, vocals, ceramics, leather crafts, woodworking, photography and many others.

During the summer period, about 1,500,000 adults are involved in the work of the camps. These are counselors, administration, methodologists, program and club leaders, service personnel, medical workers and food workers. Most camps employ 40-50% of the same staff year after year. Over the past 10 years there has been increased interest in the practice of attracting foreign counselors to provide a socio-cultural experience for the younger generation. Every year, more than 35,000 foreign counselors work in American camps, who are recruited by special agencies of the US State Department as part of cultural exchange programs. In Russia, starting from 90s, there are also counselor exchange programs with foreign countries, including the United States. Every year, more than 6,000 counselors from our country go to work in American camps during the summer.

Recruiting, training and maintaining good staff, both core and volunteers, is not an easy task. The demand for summer workforce for 18-24 year olds will continue to increase until 2010 (US statistics) and the shortage of workforce in this age group is high.

Traditionally American camps have shifts of one to two weeks, although most private camps offer four-, six- and eight-week shifts. The cost of staying in country camps per week varies from $200 to $400. There are camps with a higher cost. In day camps, the cost ranges between $75-300 per week. Approximately 65% ​​of camps accredited by the American Association offer various financial assistance (more than a million people) – to poor children, the sick or those who for some reason are not able to pay for a ticket. Of course, the need outweighs the possibilities. Making camps accessible to everyone is the biggest challenge, especially for low-income families.

In the last thirty years, children’s camps in America have become a very profitable business. The average annual income of camp owners is more than $11 billion. Most of the camps are private family businesses.

The most common types of camps are: traditional, religious, separate for boys and girls, scouting, for physically or mentally handicapped children and adults, for children requiring special conditions for medical reasons, day camps, camps with specialized programs.