Supporting autistic children in summer camp settings

Camp success starts with the right match

Camps can build confidence, friendships, and independence—but they can also be loud, unpredictable, and full of transitions. The best camps for autistic kids are the ones willing to collaborate and use simple supports consistently.

Before camp: share a short support plan

• What helps: visuals, first/then, breaks, specific reinforcers.
• Triggers: waiting, group games, noise, transitions, hunger.
• Safety: elopement risk, water safety, allergies, meds.
• Communication: how your child asks for help/breaks.

Build predictability into a day that’s not predictable

Ask the camp to provide a simple daily schedule and to preview transitions (“Two more minutes, then cleanup”). If possible, plan a consistent arrival routine and a calm “reset” option during the day.

Plan for regulation (not just behavior)

Many kids do better when sensory breaks are scheduled, not earned. A short walk, water break, headphones, or a quiet corner can prevent escalation.

If camp isn’t going well

Look for patterns: time of day, activity type, staff changes, or hunger/sleep. Sometimes a small adjustment (more structure, shorter days, a consistent staff point person) makes a big difference.

How ABA can help

ABA can build the skills camp requires—waiting, joining groups, coping with losing, asking for breaks—and support generalization in real community settings.