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Kids with special needs from Westchester up to Albany will love crafting, creating, and playing at these summer programs.
With the end of the school year fast approaching, now is the golden hour to get summer camps booked. After all, it’s only a matter of time before the kids are home for good.
For families with children with autism, finalizing summer plans can be an extra challenge, especially when it comes to finding programs that are just as fun as they are supportive. Luckily, the Hudson Valley and Westchester are packed to the brim with options.
Browse through our list to find the perfect fit for your little one this summer.
P.S. Did we miss a spot? Email us at edit@hvmag.com so we can add it!
Camp Ramapo
Kids can roam free across Camp Ramapo’s 250-acre campus in Rhinebeck. Ramapo works with children affected by social, emotional, and learning challenges to build relationships, improve self-confidence, and have fun.
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Uniquely, the camp maintains a 1:1 staff to camper ratio, which means each child gets hands-on attention. There is also a teen leadership program for 14- to 21-year-olds who seek to gain more independence and responsibilities.
Rhinebeck; 845.876.8403
Type: Residential
Length: Varied, one- to nine-week session options
Camp Warwick
Camp Sunrise—Camp Warwick’s programming for individuals with special needs—caters to people ages 8 to 55. Each session runs for five days in June or July. During that time, campers test out a variety of community activities, such as hiking, bowling, dancing, and even a talent show! Campers can also look forward to a visit to Wawayanda State Park and a drive-in movie.
Warwick; 845.986.1164
Type: Residential
Length: One week
Camp Spectacular
Though the Clover Patch Camp’s sleepaway program has been suspended due to the coronavirus, its day camp for youths with autism spectrum disorders, Camp Spectacular, is currently accepting applications for the summer 2022 program. The camp maintains a 2:1 camper to counselor ratio and aims to “appeal to individual interests” and “improve self-confidence, collaborative skills, social skills, and problem solving.”
Glenville; 518.437.5700
Type: Day camp
Length: Five days for residential session or four days for commuter session
Club Aspire
As part of Greystone Programs’ autism support initiatives, Club Aspire extends its afterschool support into a summer break event for kids ages 6 to 21. Youths in Ulster and Orange Counties can spend the dog days of summer having the time of their lives. Campers can learn money and time management skills, along with arts and crafts, dancing, cooking, and music.
Warwick; 845.469.3760
Type: Commuter
Length: One week sessions
Club COOL
The Dutchess County branch of Greystone Programs offers its summer break extension for boys and girls ages 6 to 21. Children receive individualized assistance and learn about self-care, money, time management, safety, and social skills.
Wappingers Falls; 845.452.5772
Type: Commuter
Length: One week sessions
North East Westchester Special Recreation
Open to children and teens ages four to 20 and boasting a 1:3 staff ratio, the North East Westchester Special Recreation Summer Day Camp divides campers into supportive groups based on independence levels. The days are divided into four activity sessions in the morning, followed by breaks for lunch, swimming, and one afternoon activity.
Briarcliff Manor; 914.347.4409
Type: Commuter
Length: Six weeks
Camp Reece at Skidmore College
This summer camp focuses on children with autism and special needs who are ages 10 to 17, with a setting that allows for character development and encourages social and emotional growth through fun programming that fosters new friendships.
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Campers are encouraged to try activities among the art, sports, and adventure programs before they choose what to specialize in during their time at camp.
Saratoga Springs; 212.289.4872
Type: Residential
Length: 3 or 6 weeks
