This independent camp was specifically designed for children who use AAC devices to communicate, but other campers may also be considered if space allows.
CAMPER ELIGIBILITY:
Recognize all or most of the letters of the alphabet.
Associate letters to speech sounds.
Enjoy book reading activities.
MUST have a reliable mode of communication.
Possess the ability to participate in joint attention activities.
Do not demonstrate behaviors that negatively impact their ability to learn or the learning of others.
Do not require 1:1 behavioral support.
This is an independent overnight camp under the supervision of highly skilled counselors who are trained to care for the unique needs of your child. There is also a nurse at camp 24/7. Parents do not attend this camp.
IF YOUR CHILD IS AN AAC USER COMMUNICATOR:
How does your child access his/her device?
Can they use it independently or need prompting?
Are they able to navigate easily through their pages or do they need assistance to locate vocabulary?
Does your child use single cells to communicate a message or formulate phrases and sentences?
Is their device core vocabulary based?
Would someone unfamiliar with your child’s customized pages be able to model language and help your child locate vocabulary?
Do they initiate social exchanges?
How your child signal when he/she needs help?
What does their 1:1 conversations and/or group discussions look like?
Are they able to answer questions with a head nod or eye gaze?
Is there keyboard access on their device?
Do they spell words, use word prediction or core vocabulary when communicating or a variety of all?
OTHER QUESTIONS ASKED:
Does your child initiate social exchanges?
What does their 1:1 conversations and/or group discussions look like?
WE MAY ALSO REQUEST A FIVE MINUTE VIDEO OF YOUR CHILD INTERACTING WITH THEIR DEVICE.
