Camp Lee Mar – Special Needs Summer Camps
 
Although Camp Lee Mar is a special needs summer camp there are many reasons why a camp program in general, special needs or mainstream, is great for any child!

 
1. Personal Growth and Problem Solving Skills
   At camp children exercise their brains and learn new skills every day in a hands on functional environment. All camp-based activities give campers the opportunity to development skills ranging from problem solving, creative expression, teamwork, and conflict management. Informal or natural learning environments often have a deeper impact than formal learning settings; think of working together with your group to put up a tent, make a group art project, or even cheering on your team.

 

2. Being Healthy and Active
   The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 60 minutes of daily physical activity for children, but many children fall short of this goal on a daily basis. A structured camp schedule with lots of adventure and activity gets children motivated and moving!

 

3. Reducing Screen Time
   It’s no secret that kids (well, all of us) spend too much time on devices, being sedentary and having all needed information and entertainment at our fingertips. Although technology is a positive enhancement in our lives, camp can offer a much-needed digital detox which is easy in the summer camp setting.

 

4. Developing Social-Emotional Skills
   A camp experience offers a boost in social life and psychosocial development.
   Campers are focused on the meaningful interactions they are having each day.
   A sense of belonging is built while singing camp songs, participating in scheduled camp activities and large group camp evening entertainments. Many campers develop friendships that last far beyond summer. Through group dynamics and navigating new relationships, campers also learn to solve relational issues and cope with conflict.

 

5. Fosters Independence
   Children need a chance to find themselves in a new environment. This helps campers develop a strong sense of self as they discover new activities and overcome manageable challenges like going on the zip-line, creating art, performing in an evening entertainment or show, and participating in group sports. In the group environment, campers learn to negotiate, collaborate and accept guidance. These are all important skills to carry into adult life.

Camp is an amazing experience for any child, regardless of ability or diagnosis. Feel free to reach out to us to talk about ways that camp could benefit your child!
 

Written by Lynsey Trohoske

 

My name is Lynsey Trohoske, I am the assistant director at Camp Lee Mar. I have three amazing children, my middle child happens to be on the autism spectrum and is a camper at Lee Mar. I joined camp as a counselor in 1998 and loved the campers and their families so much that Camp Lee Mar became my second home!