
We're gathering parent picks for the best summer camps for kids with special needs near NYC!
If you're looking for camps for a child with autism, ADHD or other developmental, learning or physical special needs, we hope you'll find the perfect fit for your family on this list. These favorites welcome kids with all abilities to have summer fun while building independence, social skills and friendships.
Have personal experience with any of these summer camps for special needs near NYC? Please comment with your review! Have another gem to add to the list? Post a new recommendation to tell us about it.
JCC Day Camp at Staten Island - Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs
Nancy L.: Marvin's Camp for Children with Special Needs provides an enriching, educational, and fun outlet for children with a variety of challenges. Campers will swim twice daily and receive instruction in sports activities, a challenge course, music, arts and crafts, dancing, outdoor cooking, drum circle, and Israeli culture. Off-site trips can include Sesame Place, Bounce U, and Medieval Times. Door-to-door transportation is available.
Extreme Kids & Crew Summer Camp
Nancy L.: Extreme Kids & Crew Camp is for children with developmental disabilities to socialize and play in a small group of up to nine children. Days are filled with adventures and fun mixed with a level of predictability so children feel comfortable. Sessions will focus on art, music, movement, and play in the fully equipped sensory gym.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum - All Access Maker Camp
Jennie Utsinger: The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum offers camp for children with developmental disabilities. Campers explore the museum, engage in design challenges, and meet experts in the field. While experimenting with materials and technology, campers are practicing problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
Camp Ramapo
1 week to 9 week camp sessions; overnight options
Varies; from $2,000/week
Age: 6-16
Nancy L.: Camp Ramapo is a traditional summer camp for kids who are on the autism spectrum or those who have social, emotional, or learning challenges. Activities include swimming, hiking, boating, fishing, and caring for animals under the direction of a one-to-one camper-to-staff ratio. Situated on 250 acres in Rhinebeck, Camp Ramapo helps children live within a group, form friendships, and improve communication.
Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck
One week camp sessions; overnight and single day options
Nancy L.: Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck is sleepaway camp for physically and mentally challenged children and young adults of Long Island and beyond. Campers of all abilities take part in activities including swimming, hiking, sports, music, camp fires, and more on this 37-acre site situated on the shores of Kaler’s Pond in Center Moriches. Sessions are set up by age group.
Primary photo: Janko Ferlič on Unsplash
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