First summer camp for children with disabilities

continues tradition of meeting children’s needs

Greater Cincinnati’s tradition of camping programs for children with disabilities started in 1963 with Camp Stepping Stone. The camp, on 23 acres in Indian Hill, started with two parents who realized no other camp programs in the area could accommodate their children, so they developed one of their own.

This year’s 45^th camp season continues that spirit of filling gaps with the first ever residential and day camp for children with autism, running June 29 through July 4 at Camp Allyn in Batavia.

Because some children with autism can find changing their bedtime routines difficult, the Sensory Celebration camp offers a day-only option, with flexible hours between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. The new Sensory Celebration camp is the latest example of Stepping Stones creatively filling a pressing need.

The camp for children and teens with autism includes sensory-centered activities to help children manage their moods and enjoy a true summer camp experience. Teens with Asperger's, a high-functioning form of autism, have their own camp program emphasizing social interaction and expressing their feelings.

 "Teens with Asperger's often have social issues," said Tabbie Ross, residential and respite coordinator for Stepping Stones at Camp Allyn. "They need help expressing how they are feeling and what their needs are. A lot of kids with Asperger's go to typical camps, but a lot of times they are not successful because they feel pressured to perform at a faster pace, to keep up with other kids. Here they do things at their own pace. Our definition of success is totally different. It's not about who does the best. You don't have to hit the ball. Maybe you just want to hold the bat."

The "Sensory Celebration" is one of three overnight residential camp sessions for children offered by Stepping Stones Center.  Kids Kamp sessions, July 13-18 or Aug. 3-8, are designed for children age 6 to 16 who have any level of disability and their best buddies or siblings who share the camp experience with crafts, games, swimming, singing, campfires, scavenger hunts and crazy evening events.

Close to 300 children are expected to attend the Stepping Stones Summer Day Camp programs at Stepping Stones Center in Indian Hill and at the 47-acre Camp Allyn in Batavia. The residential and day camping programs are accredited by the American Camp Association. Stepping Stones is a United Way partner agency.

April 2008