Special needs summer camps jacksonville fl. Special Needs Summer Camps in Jacksonville, FL: Comprehensive Guide

What are the top special needs summer camps in Jacksonville, Florida. How do these camps accommodate children with disabilities. Which activities and programs are offered at special needs camps in Jacksonville.

Camp I Am Special: A Leader in Special Needs Camping

Camp I Am Special, operated by Catholic Charities Jacksonville, stands out as a premier special needs summer camp in the Jacksonville area. For 40 years, this American Camp Association (ACA) accredited facility has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children, teenagers, and adults with intellectual and developmental differences (IDDs) and other disabilities.

The camp offers a unique environment where individuals with special needs can grow in independence and explore their abilities. Campers have the opportunity to participate in various activities tailored to their needs and interests.

Key Features of Camp I Am Special

• Personalized care for individuals with specific needs and challenges
• Diverse range of activities including hayrides, crafts, and adaptive sports
• State-of-the-art aquatic center with sensory stimuli
• Wheelchair-accessible playground
• One-on-one buddy system with trained volunteers

The camp’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its ability to accommodate a wide range of conditions, including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and many others. This comprehensive approach ensures that campers with various special needs can enjoy a fulfilling summer camp experience.

Innovative Facilities at Camp I Am Special

Camp I Am Special boasts cutting-edge facilities designed to cater to the unique needs of its campers. The Rotary Club of Deerwood Abigail’s Joy Camp I Am Special Aquatic Center is a standout feature, providing a safe and stimulating aquatic environment.

The Aquatic Center: A Sensory Haven

• 2,450 square feet of sensory stimuli
• Bubblers and fountains for tactile stimulation
• ADA-compliant gradual pool entrance
• Variety of floats to accommodate different needs
• Water walkers and water wheelchairs available

This thoughtfully designed aquatic center allows campers to engage with water at their own pace, promoting confidence and independence in a safe, supervised setting.

Chartrand Family Camp I Am Special Playground

The camp’s commitment to inclusive play extends to its recently added playground. This specially designed space features:

• Multiple wheelchair-accessible rockers
• Multi-person swings for group enjoyment
• Intergenerational swing to foster connections between campers of different ages

These facilities underscore Camp I Am Special’s dedication to creating an environment where all campers can play, learn, and grow together, regardless of their physical or developmental challenges.

The Unique Buddy System at Camp I Am Special

One of the most distinctive aspects of Camp I Am Special is its Buddy System. This program pairs each camper with a volunteer high school student, creating a one-on-one support system that enhances the camp experience for all involved.

What Are Camp Buddies?

Camp Buddies are dedicated volunteers who provide around-the-clock care and companionship to their assigned camper. These young volunteers undergo comprehensive training to understand and meet the specific needs of their camper.

Responsibilities of Camp Buddies

• Providing personalized care based on the camper’s unique needs
• Offering constant companionship and support
• Assisting with daily activities and camp programs
• Ensuring the safety and well-being of their assigned camper

The Buddy System not only enhances the camp experience for individuals with special needs but also provides a valuable learning opportunity for the volunteers. It fosters empathy, understanding, and personal growth for both campers and buddies alike.

iCan Bike: A Specialized Summer Program

While Camp I Am Special offers a comprehensive summer camp experience, other specialized programs in Jacksonville cater to specific needs. One such program is iCan Bike, hosted by the North Florida School of Special Education.

iCan Bike is a unique summer camp that focuses on teaching individuals with disabilities how to ride a conventional two-wheel bicycle. This program uses adapted bicycles, specialized instructional techniques, and a team of dedicated staff and volunteers to help participants achieve this significant milestone.

Key Aspects of iCan Bike

• Tailored instruction for individuals with various disabilities
• Use of adapted bicycles to build confidence and skills
• Gradual progression from assisted to independent riding
• Emphasis on building self-esteem and promoting physical activity

Programs like iCan Bike demonstrate the diverse range of specialized summer camp options available in Jacksonville, each addressing specific needs and goals for individuals with disabilities.

The Importance of Volunteers in Special Needs Camps

Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of special needs summer camps in Jacksonville. These dedicated individuals provide essential support, enabling camps to offer personalized attention and care to each participant.

Volunteer Opportunities at Camp I Am Special

At Camp I Am Special, high school students can volunteer as Camp Buddies. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact while earning service hours:

• 121 service hours for a week of residential camp
• 101 service hours for a week of day camp
• 40 hours for Mini-Camp
• 6 hours for a Super Saturday

These volunteer opportunities not only benefit the camp and its participants but also provide valuable experience and personal growth for the volunteers themselves.

Urgent Need for Volunteers at iCan Bike

The North Florida School of Special Education’s iCan Bike program highlights the ongoing need for volunteers in special needs summer camps. The program requires a significant number of volunteers to provide one-on-one support to participants as they learn to ride bicycles.

The urgent call for volunteers underscores the importance of community involvement in making these specialized programs successful. It also presents an opportunity for Jacksonville residents to contribute meaningfully to the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Benefits of Special Needs Summer Camps

Special needs summer camps in Jacksonville offer numerous benefits for participants, their families, and the wider community. These programs provide unique opportunities for growth, socialization, and skill development in a supportive environment.

For Participants

• Increased independence and self-confidence
• Opportunities to develop new skills and interests
• Social interaction with peers and supportive adults
• Physical activity and outdoor experiences
• Respite from daily routines and challenges

For Families

• Respite care and time for self-care
• Opportunities to connect with other families facing similar challenges
• Seeing their loved ones grow and develop new skills
• Access to resources and support networks

For the Community

• Increased awareness and understanding of disabilities
• Opportunities for volunteerism and community engagement
• Promotion of inclusivity and diversity

These benefits highlight the significant value that special needs summer camps bring to Jacksonville, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Funding and Support for Special Needs Camps

Special needs summer camps in Jacksonville rely on various sources of funding and support to provide their valuable services. Understanding these funding mechanisms is crucial for ensuring the sustainability and accessibility of these programs.

Donations and Fundraising

Many special needs camps, including Camp I Am Special, actively seek donations from the community. These can take several forms:

• Monetary donations to support camp operations
• Material donations, such as supplies and equipment
• Meal donations to feed campers, buddies, and staff

Camps often maintain wish lists, like Camp I Am Special’s Amazon Wishlist, allowing supporters to contribute specific items needed for camp activities.

Grants and Partnerships

Special needs camps may also receive funding through:

• Government grants for disability services
• Partnerships with local businesses and organizations
• Support from larger parent organizations (e.g., Catholic Charities for Camp I Am Special)

These funding sources help keep camp fees affordable for families and ensure that camps can continue to offer high-quality programs and facilities.

Community Support

The Jacksonville community plays a vital role in supporting special needs camps through:

• Volunteer work
• Advocacy and awareness-raising
• Participation in fundraising events

This community involvement not only provides essential resources but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility for supporting individuals with disabilities.

Choosing the Right Special Needs Camp in Jacksonville

With several options available, selecting the right special needs summer camp in Jacksonville requires careful consideration. Families should evaluate various factors to ensure the best fit for their loved one with special needs.

Factors to Consider

• Specific needs and abilities of the potential camper
• Types of activities and programs offered
• Staff qualifications and camper-to-staff ratio
• Facilities and accommodations available
• Duration and schedule of camp sessions
• Cost and available financial assistance

Questions to Ask

When researching camps, consider asking the following questions:

1. How does the camp accommodate specific disabilities or medical needs?
2. What is the camp’s approach to behavior management?
3. How are emergencies handled?
4. What is the daily schedule like?
5. How are staff members trained and screened?
6. Are there opportunities for family involvement or visitation?

By thoroughly researching and asking these questions, families can make an informed decision and choose a camp that best meets their needs and expectations.

Special needs summer camps in Jacksonville offer invaluable experiences for individuals with disabilities. From the comprehensive programs at Camp I Am Special to specialized initiatives like iCan Bike, these camps provide opportunities for growth, socialization, and skill development in supportive environments. The success of these programs relies heavily on community involvement, whether through volunteering, donations, or advocacy. As awareness grows and support increases, Jacksonville continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with special needs.

Camp I Am Special | Catholic Charities Jacksonville

CLICK HERE TO CHECK APPLICATION STATUS OR MAKE A PAYMENT

Return to Ultracamp

CAMP I AM SPECIAL

CARING FOR PERSONS WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES & PHYSICAL DISABILITIES

About Camp I Am Special

For the last 40 years, Catholic Charities’ Camp I Am Special – an American Camp Association (ACA) accredited facility – has fostered and celebrated the quality of life for children, teenagers, and adults with intellectual and developmental differences (IDDs) and other disabilities.

A typical in-person camp program gives individuals with IDDs opportunities to grow in independence. The programming offered at Camp I Am Special gives the choice to participate in numerous daily activities that allow them to take risks, stretch their abilities and enjoy the company of others. Some of those activities include hayrides, crafts, adaptive sports and yoga, and spending time with friends at The Rotary Club of Deerwood Abigail’s Joy Camp I Am Special Aquatic Center.

The newly-constructed pool and shaded pavilion provide approximately 2,450 square feet of sensory stimuli including, bubblers and fountains, an ADA-compliant gradual pool entrance, and floats of all shapes and sizes. Campers are free to enter the water at their own pace, and water walkers and water wheelchairs are always available for those needing assistance.  

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In addition to the pool, the recently added Chartrand Family Camp I Am Special Playground offers a multiple wheelchair-accessible rocker, multi-person swings, and an intergenerational swing that helps children and adults develop connections.

SUPPORT CAMPERS WITH A MEAL

We are in need of donated meals to feed Campers, Buddies, and Staff during our Camp sessions. Contact us for more information.

Donate a Meal

CAMP I AM SPECIAL 2023

 Camp I Am Special summer 2023 registration is now  open!

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MAKE A DONATION

TO CAMP

Your generosity makes a huge difference for our Campers. Consider a monetary or material donation to bolster our efforts.

CAMP AMAZON WISHLIST

Who Qualifies for Camp I Am Special

During in-person sessions, our team offers personalized care that allows us to welcome individuals with specific needs and challenges including:

Angelman Syndrome

Asperger’s Syndrome

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Autism

Barrett’s Esophagus

Cerebral Palsy

Charcot Marie Tooth Disease

Chromosome Abnormality

Cornelia de Lange Syndrome

Developmentally/Globally Delayed

Down Syndrome

Dysmorphic Syndrome

EMH, PHM, TMH

​Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Muscular Dystrophy

Pervasive Development Disorder

Prader/Willi Syndrome

Secondary Emotional Disorder

Seizure Disorders

Sensory Integration Dysfunction

Small Brain Syndrome

Spina Bifida

Static Encephalopathy

Tourette syndrome

Tuberous Sclerosis

Other developmental and unique abilities

What Are Camp Buddies?

Buddies are volunteer high-school students paired 1:1 with Campers to provide around-the-clock care and companionship. Our Buddies receive training on all aspects of their Camper’s differences, including needs and challenges as well as likes and dislikes. Buddies earn 121 service hours for a week of residential camp, 101 service hours for a week of day camp, 40 hours of service for Mini-Camp and 6 hours of service for a Super Saturday. Buddies are expected to be selfless, dedicated, compassionate, energetic and fun. To learn more about becoming a Camp Buddy CLICK HERE.

Questions?

For all Camp inquiries or to receive more information,
please contact us via email at [email protected].

Physical Address :

445 Marywood Drive

Fruit Cove, FL 32259

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Mailing Address :
235 Marywood Drive
St. Johns, FL 32259

Phone Number:
(904) 230-7447

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Fax Number:
(904) 230-7465

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Email:
[email protected]

Local school for students with disabilities in urgent need of volunteers for iCan Bike summer camp

Local News

Kendra Mazeke, Digital Content Producer

Published:  745Z”>July 8, 2022, 12:55 PM

Updated: July 8, 2022, 10:47 PM

Tags: Community, Community Service, Summer Camps, Jacksonville

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97 through 7/17!

Local News

The camp starts July 11

Kendra Mazeke, Digital Content Producer

Published: July 8, 2022, 12:55 PMUpdated: July 8, 2022, 10:47 PM

Tags: Community, Community Service, Summer Camps, Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The North Florida School of Special Education is in urgent need of volunteers to assist in the iCan Bike summer camp starting next week.

Volunteers will work alongside a rider to help teach them how to ride a two-wheel bicycle independently.

The five-day camp, located at 223 Mill Creek Road, runs from July 11 through July 15.

Volunteers do not need prior experience working with people with disabilities. They must be at least 15 years old, but if they are under 15, they can contact the camp host for possible opportunities.

Volunteer duties include:

• Attending a one-hour orientation on Sunday, July 10 from 3:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the NFSSE gym.

• Participating in five 90-minute sessions each day for five days

  • Session 1: 8:30-9:45 am

  • Session 2: 10:05-11:20 am

  • Session 3: 11:40 am -12:55 pm

  • Session 4: 2:00-3:15 pm

  • Session 5: 3:35-4:50 pm

• Ability to attend all five days for the same session

• Ability to jog/run alongside a rider for 75 minutes

If you’re interested in lending an extra hand, click here to submit an application.

Take a look at the video below to get a glimpse of what your experience could be like.

For further questions, email Rina Park at icanbikejaxfl@gmail. com.

Copyright 2022 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Kendra Mazeke

As a proud alumnus of Bethune-Cookman University, Kendra is a Jacksonville native, who loves all things lifestyle-related.

Language camp in Florida, children’s camp in Florida, courses for children and schoolchildren

Florida is one of the most developed and densely populated states in the US with a high standard of living, and the education system here is also of the highest quality. The language camp is a special integrated course of study that combines study and recreation with academic studies and an adventurous spirit. They can be a great summer plan for foreigners and Russians looking to improve their language skills, relax and recharge. Training is conducted in schools, colleges, universities and educational centers, many of which are on the top lines of regional and world rankings, have excellent reviews.

Children’s language camp in Florida: advantages and benefits for schoolchildren

Benefits of a camp in Florida:

• Florida is one of the most developed, beautiful and densely populated states in the country
• The US education system is a recognized leader in the modern world
• Combining language learning with outdoor activities
• Wide variety of sports and creative activities available
• High level of organization
• Highly qualified teachers and staff
• Comfortable accommodation
• 100% security
• Available throughout the year
• Unique nature, great climate, plenty of sunny days
• International groups.

Features of summer language camps in Florida: programs, courses for children and schoolchildren

Warm and mild climate, developed infrastructure and friendly people provide excellent opportunities for recreation, creative growth and development. Even in winter, the temperature here rarely drops below 20 degrees Celsius! Programs run throughout all four seasons, mostly during holidays:

• Winter
• Spring
• Summer
• Autumn.

Most of the camps, of course, work in the summer. Training lasts from 1 to 6 weeks (sometimes more). The schedule includes:

• Language lessons
• Sports activities
• Creativity and art
• Excursions, holidays, events.

All participants are divided into groups according to age and skill level, each group has its own methods of work. Age groups:

• 3-7 years old
• 8-11 years old
• 12-14 years old
• 15-18 years old.

The smallest participants are usually accompanied by their parents or a nanny/guardian. Younger groups mostly just improve their language level, while middle and high school students can prepare for serious exams or take a complicated academic course. Language lessons are held in small groups and under the guidance of exclusively highly qualified specialists – a cozy atmosphere is created in the classroom, children are not shy about asking questions. Types of language programs:

• Standard
• Intensive
• Test and exam preparation
• Academic (preparation for admission to US schools and colleges).

In some cases, study of various disciplines is available both to improve the general level of development and to enter a school or college. Available subjects (list is incomplete):

• Science (biology, physics, chemistry)
• Mathematics
• Algebra
• Geometry
• History
• Geography
• Engineering
• Computer science
• Environmental science, ecology
• Natural sciences
• Humanities.

The second part of the camp is devoted to sports, creativity and recreation, which are arranged in a variety of combinations at the request of the student. Activity is given to the second half of the day, weekends are usually devoted to excursions and trips. The lists are very extensive, everyone can find something to their liking:

1) Sports (partial list):

• American football
• Basketball
• Baseball
• Volleyball
• Beach volleyball 9001 2
• Beach soccer
• Football
• Sailing
• Boating
• Running
• Wrestling
• Water polo
• Gymnastics
• Lacrosse
• Golf
• Horse riding
• Cycling
• Cycling
• Swimming
• Diving
• Extreme sports
• Alpinism, rock climbing.

2) Creativity, arts and hobbies (the list is incomplete):

Design and fashion.

Florida language camps: prices, cost

Participants attend excursions, watch movies, go to theaters, shops, shopping centers. The host country provides accommodation and meals at the highest level. Accommodation options:

• Residence
• Host family
• Hotel/apartment.

Prices and costs differ depending on the institution, direction and other conditions. The total price usually includes:

• Language classes
• Physical activity and creativity
• Excursions and activities
• Academic disciplines
• Accommodation and meals
• Teaching aids.

Additional charges:

• Medical insurance (sometimes included in the total bill)
• Air travel
• Visa processing
• Out-of-pocket expenses.

The admission process is simple: you need to choose an institution and a course, fill out an application and then follow the instructions of specialists. Bookings should be made in advance, as the demand for studying in Florida is very high.

The best language camps in Florida for Russian children

Sample language camps in Florida:

• New York Film Academy South Beach, Miami. The famous and very prestigious Academy of Cinematography, from which many famous actors, directors and cinematographers have come out, offers training in directing and acting. Children work with best-of-breed technology, meet famous directors and actors, and create their own films and videos. From $2200 for 2 weeks.
• Rennert International Miami (Miami). A large number of various programs and areas: business and economics; preparation for TOEFL, FCE, CAE; fashion and design; art; sports, unique courses on the study of the sea, ecology and the state of the environment. You can take tutoring lessons. A large number of leisure, cultural and entertainment activities. From $1680 per week.
• LAL Fort Lauderdale. Varieties: winter, autumn, spring, summer course; preparation for exams and tests; business; academic course; individual sessions. The school has a very strong teaching staff and is distinguished by its own developments in linguistics, many of which have no analogues in the world. Active extracurricular life. From $1000 per week.
• Admiral Farragut Academy (Tampa). Offers a serious academic program in various subjects: history, literature, algebra, geometry, calculus, English as a foreign language, engineering, STEM and robotics, marine biology, biology, physics, chemistry and others. Studying the most advanced and latest discoveries and technologies.

More than 50,000 Moscow children will have a rest in summer camps at schools / News of the city / Moscow Website

Family and youth policy yut more than 300 institutions, in including almost 130 schools, 27 sports schools of the Department of Physical Culture and Sports and 146 institutions of the Department of Labor and Social Protection of the Population.

The Moscow government approved the EP program for organizing children’s recreation. During the discussion of the program, more than 400 meetings with parents took place. More than 20 thousand people took part in them. In addition, more than 300 thousand parents participated in the survey, which was conducted through electronic diaries.

The Moscow Change program is aimed at organizing summer vacations for schoolchildren aged seven to 14 who, for various reasons, do not plan to leave the city for vacations.

City children’s recreation is organized in more than 300 institutions, including almost 130 schools, 27 sports schools of the Department of Physical Culture and Sports and 146 institutions of the Department of Labor and Social Protection of the Population.

During the summer shifts, under the guidance of teachers, children can not only relax, but also go on excursions, gain additional knowledge and skills, go in for sports, attend master classes. Here, three meals a day are organized for children. Rest will be free.

Two shifts are scheduled – from 1 to 30 June and from 4 to 29 July. In addition, the third shift will take place in the institutions of the Department of Labor and Social Protection of the Population from August 1 to 29.

It is expected that more than 50 thousand Moscow schoolchildren will be able to have a rest under the United Russia program “Moscow Change”. You can get acquainted with the map of children’s summer camps on the open data portal of Moscow.

Children’s city camps

These are traditional school camps. They plan to open in each district on the basis of the most equipped schools. Children here will be able to relax and study under the guidance of experienced teachers.

Gifted students will be prepared for exams and olympiads in chemistry, physics and the Russian language, and for children who find the material more difficult, they will conduct interesting classes in various subjects. Those who love sports will be able to attend master classes of champions.

Each of the school camps will provide its pupils with three meals a day.

To send a child here, parents must write an application addressed to the principal of their school. He, in turn, will turn to the director of the school where the camp will be opened. After that, a decision is made on enrolling the child in the shift.

City health centers

This type of summer camp will be opened on the basis of regional family and childhood support centers. Children from families in difficult life situations and with special needs will be able to get here. All preferential categories have the right to visit health centers.

Hiking, sports days, bike rides, military sports games are waiting for children here. They will be able to visit sports complexes, swimming pools, excursions to the places of military glory of the Moscow region. Those who need it will work with a speech therapist and psychologist, attend physiotherapy exercises and physiotherapy.