Staff training at inclusive camps should include disability awareness exercises such as having counselors get around camp in a wheelchair. Techniques for handling health issues and helping campers through transitions are presented. During camp, have enough staff or volunteers to support campers with special needs. Disability awareness exercises…

Food allergies can kill a child, and camp offers many opportunities for things to go wrong. One camp with many allergic campers gathered information from parents on the extent of allergies and medications needed; educated staff about the seriousness of allergies, food preparation procedures, and snacks; and prepared an emergency plan. Family,…

Camps for children with serious diseases or disabilities are becoming more common. These camps provide children and their families with ongoing support systems and allow children to interact with peers who accept them for who they are while having fun. Counselors with similar conditions make good role models. Camps sponsored by four national…