What is the biggest fear of most parents/campers? Staying overnight! Most of our little campers have never stayed overnight or away from family members before. We understand and have planned for it. When you answer your child's profile questions, there is space to share information about your child. Please give as much information as possible to help make your child's overnight experience go smoothly.

What if there is an emergency at camp? We have 2-3 nurses at the camp the entire time. Their job is to administer meds, first aid, handle any illnesses, etc. If an emergency arises, you will be contacted and plans made accordingly. We have a team dedicated to working with meltdowns, undesirable behaviors, and campers with more significant needs. This team of volunteers works daily with individuals with special needs. These Special Education teachers, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, and mental health therapists have all attended camp many times and are comfortable in this role.

Can I attend camp with my child? In addition to safety, our top priority is our little campers' FUN! Kids often behave differently and do more when their parents are not around. If a parent wants to volunteer, we suggest they attend a different camp than their child.

My child is non-verbal or has limited communication skills. How will their big campers know what my child wants/needs? In your child's registration profile, there is a place to indicate communication abilities and preferences. If your child uses a communication device and you are comfortable sending that to camp, you can. We also have visual/picture tools and volunteers who know sign language or work with non-verbal children on a daily basis. Your child's big campers are selected based on what they have indicated in their registration profile as well. You will also have a chance to visit with them before you leave and can pass on any helpful information.

My child is not fully potty trained or has other self-care needs. Can they still come to camp? Absolutely!! We know this is common for children with autism and are prepared. Your child has been paired with big campers who are comfortable assisting in these areas. We have supplies on hand in case your child runs out or has a nighttime accident. We also have a team of volunteers who take care of laundering needs.

My child has dietary restrictions or food aversions. How is that handled at camp? There is a place in your child’s profile to indicate food allergies or other food-related concerns. We work closely with the campground’s kitchen staff and purposely plan meals to easily accommodate most food allergies/intolerances and aversions.

Why is there an age limit? Puberty is the main reason for the age limit. One year makes a difference for kids who hit puberty before age 12. Bigger/stronger kids may have more concerning meltdowns, heightened sexual behaviors, feminine hygiene concerns, etc. While our volunteers are awesome, we do not have enough experience to manage these situations. We cannot risk anyone getting hurt while trying to protect a child during a meltdown.