Summer camp – the words alone can conjure images of new friendships, outdoor adventures, silly songs, and lifelong memories. Juliette has been going to camps for several years and as she approaches her 9th birthday, her parents have a host of day-camp experiences prepared for her.

For children with Down syndrome, camp offers these same incredible opportunities for growth, independence, and fun. With thoughtful preparation, you can help ensure your child has a positive and rewarding experience.

The key to a successful camp adventure lies in planning and open communication. Whether it’s a day camp down the street or a specialized sleepaway program, taking proactive steps can make all the difference.

1. Finding the Right Fit (A Quick Note)

Before diving into preparation, ensure you’ve chosen a camp that aligns with your child’s needs, interests, and abilities. Consider factors like staff-to-camper ratios, staff training in working with children with diverse needs, the types of activities offered, and whether an inclusive mainstream camp or a specialized camp is the best environment for your child at this time. Don’t hesitate to ask camps detailed questions about their experience and support for children with Down syndrome.

2. The Power of Communication: Partnering with Camp Staff

Once you’ve chosen a camp, open and thorough communication is your most powerful tool. “Open and detailed communication with the camp director and counselors before camp begins is paramount,” advises Dr. Sarah Chen, a child psychologist specializing in neurodevelopmental conditions. “Sharing your child’s specific communication methods, sensory sensitivities, successful calming strategies, and even their favorite jokes or motivators can make a world of difference in their adjustment and enjoyment.”

Create a simple “All About Me” information sheet that includes:

• Strengths and Interests: What does your child love to do? What are they good at?
• Communication Style: How do they best express themselves (verbal, sign, device, gestures)? What helps them understand others?
• Routines and Preferences: Any specific routines for eating, toileting, or calming down?
• Sensory Needs: Are they sensitive to loud noises, certain textures, or bright lights? What helps?
• Medical Information: Allergies, medications, emergency contacts (covered more below).
• Successful Strategies: What works at home or school when they are anxious, tired, or need encouragement?

3. Getting Your Child Ready for the Adventure

Preparing your child emotionally and practically can significantly ease the transition to camp. “We encourage using social stories and visual schedules to help children with Down syndrome understand what to expect each day at camp,” says Ms. Davis, an experienced inclusive camp director. “Familiarity breeds comfort and reduces anxiety about new routines and activities.”

• Talk About Camp (Often and Positively): Start conversations about camp well in advance. Talk about the fun activities they’ll do, the new friends they might make, and what a typical day might look like. Look at camp brochures or website photos together.
• Use Social Stories and Visuals: Create a simple social story with pictures depicting the camp environment, counselors, and activities. A visual schedule for a typical camp day can also be incredibly helpful.
• Practice Makes Progress: “Researchers in adaptive recreation have found that ‘practicing key independence skills, like managing personal belongings, taking turns in a game, or participating in group activities, in the weeks leading up to camp can significantly boost a child’s confidence and ability to integrate smoothly into the camp environment,'” notes a recent review. Work on skills like:
  • Dressing independently (including changing for swimming).
  • Opening lunch containers and managing their own food.
  • Basic hygiene (handwashing, using the restroom).
  • Following simple group instructions.
• Familiarization Visits: If the camp allows, try to visit the site with your child before camp starts. Meeting a counselor or seeing the cabins/activity areas can demystify the experience.
• Role-Play Camp Scenarios: Act out common camp situations, like meeting new people, asking for help, or joining a game.

4. Packing Smart for Success

• Label Everything: Absolutely everything – clothes, water bottles, backpacks, towels.
• Comfort Items: If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or small toy that brings them comfort, check if it’s okay to send it along (especially for sleepaway camp).
• Easy-to-Manage Clothing: Choose clothes that are easy for your child to put on and take off themselves. Think elastic waistbands and slip-on shoes if fasteners are tricky. Pack extra clothes!
• Visual Aids: If you use visual schedules or communication aids at home, pack them.
• Medications & Special Equipment: Ensure these are clearly labeled with instructions.

5. Health and Safety First

• Medical Forms: Complete all camp medical forms thoroughly and accurately. List all medications, allergies, and any specific health concerns or needs.
• Medication Plan: Discuss the medication administration plan with the camp nurse or director.
• Emergency Contacts: Ensure all emergency contact information is up-to-date.
• Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Pack these and teach your child (or remind them) about their importance, if age-appropriate.

6. Setting Realistic Expectations (for Everyone!)

Camp is about growth, fun, and new experiences. It’s okay if your child is a little hesitant at first, or if there are a few bumps along the way. Focus on the positives and the effort they are making. Manage your own anxieties as well; your calm confidence can be very reassuring for your child.

A Summer of Growth and New Friendships

With proactive preparation and open collaboration with camp staff, summer camp can be an incredibly enriching experience for your child with Down syndrome. It’s a chance to build independence, make new friends, discover new talents, and create joyful memories that will last a lifetime.

Helpful Resources & Further Reading:

• National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) – https://www.ndss.org
• National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) – https://www.ndsccenter.org
• American Camp Association (ACA) – https://www.acacamps.org (Offers resources for finding camps, including those for children with special needs)
• Global Down Syndrome Foundation – https://www.globaldownsyndrome.org
• Your Local Down Syndrome Association (Search online for “[Your State/Region] Down Syndrome Association” for local resources and camp recommendations)
• Understood.org – https://www.understood.org (Resources for learning and thinking differences, which can be helpful for camp preparation)

By Scott Westerman – Down Syndrome Nation