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.