Camp MIND, a summer half-day camp for autistic kids and teens, as well as children with other neurodevelopmental disabilities, is back in person this summer. The program at the UC Davis MIND Institute features a wide variety of activities, including crafts, games, and water and fire safety training. Three, week-long summer sessions are planned, each geared toward a different age group.
Camp MIND was held in a virtual format for the past two summers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Erin Roseborough, child life specialist at the MIND Institute, is thrilled to be able to offer it in person again this summer.
"Camp MIND is a really special program," said Roseborough, who created the camp seven years ago after noticing the great need in the community. "Many kids with neurodevelopmental disabilities find typical day camps challenging, and we have created a camp that welcomes everyone and provides social opportunities and flexible fun," she explained.
After registration, the Camp MIND team reaches out to each family to assess the child's needs to create a safe and enjoyable experience for them.
Many kids with neurodevelopmental disabilities find typical day camps challenging, and we have created a camp that welcomes everyone and provides social opportunities and flexible fun."-Erin Roseborough, child life specialist
The camp is geared toward children ages 6-13 who have a neurodevelopmental disability such as autism, ADHD, fragile X syndrome or Down syndrome. Spanish-speaking facilitators will be available for translation support.
"We always have so much fun at Camp MIND," Roseborough said. "Campers enjoy playing with their peers, and we encourage them to feel confident about themselves."
Each day of camp will feature a different theme, including the great outdoors, animal adventures, superheroes, science and more.
Activities will include:
- Group games
- Crafts
- Yoga/mindfulness exercises
- Music therapy
- Outdoor activities
- Teamwork opportunities
- Special guests who'll provide water and fire safety training, entertainment and more
Camp MIND is $150 per session. The program has limited space and children will be registered based on a first-come, first-served basis. A wait list will be created to ensure as many families as possible can take part.
The three 2022 sessions will be:
- Session 1: Ages 8-10, July 11-15 (Registration closes June 27)
- Session 2: Ages 10-13, July 25-29 (Registration closes July 11)
- Session 3: Ages 6-8, Aug. 8-12 (Registration closes July 25)
All sessions run Monday – Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
