What is a Special Needs Camp?

No previous experience is required to work with campers who have physical or learning disabilities. Camp Directors are looking for applicants who are caring, hard-working and willing to learn. Training will be provided when you arrive on camp, and you'll be offered continuous support throughout the summer.

If you do already have experience in this field then you'll no doubt be in demand - so make sure you put it on your application!

Although these summer camps are adapted to support campers with physical and learning disabilities, they try to provide a lot of the same activities and experiences as a traditional summer camp. Activities might be smaller and more relaxed, but Camp Directors are still looking for counselors who can make sure their campers enjoy the best summer ever.

By approaching every day and every activity with enthusiasm and fun, you’ll make sure your campers feel the same way too. They’ll be much more willing to embrace new experiences, develop new skills and build new friendships, especially if they’re first-time campers who might already be feeling a bit unsure or nervous.

Your campers will mostly need more help throughout the day than kids at a traditional summer camp. This can range from collecting medication for them and assisting at mealtimes, to helping them use adaptive equipment during activities or overcoming challenges specific to their disabilities. The most important quality that Camp Directors are looking for is that you can approach all of this with kindness and compassion, facing challenges with a smile and celebrating successes big and small.

Each camper will have their own individual needs and requirements. One of your most important roles as a counselor working with physical and learning disabilities is to ensure that activities are adapted so everyone can take part. You’ll often need to think on the spot and be a bit creative with your adaptations, even designing your own inclusive games, but the support and training you receive from your camp leadership team will go a long way to helping you get used to this.

From sunrise to lights out, you’re likely talking to someone, somewhere. From your campers themselves, to other counselors and staff members, you’re going to need your communication skills to be in tip-top shape.

With the campers, you need to be able to strike the balance between understanding and following rules and expectations, and creating incredible memories of one of the best summers they’ll ever have. Although, remember communication isn’t just about talking - you’ll need to actively listen to any problems or concerns, and make sure campers feel valued and heard.

With other counselors and staff members, you’ll also be building a network of hugely supportive relationships at camp, and likely developing new friendships you’ll have for years and years to come. Communication becomes one of the most important aspects of the teamwork you’ll need to make sure each day runs smoothly.