HAPPY CAMPERS: In the United States, all programs are legally required to serve those with disabilities. Nonetheless, locating programs that are a good fit for a child with special needs can be a challenge.

Some years ago, "adaptive" summer camps, social, sports and recreation programs – geared specifically for those with physical and intellectual disabilities – were a family's only option. While these specialized programs can still be a good option for many, it's important for parents to understand that in the United States, all programs are legally required to serve those with disabilities. Nonetheless, locating programs that are a good fit for a child with special needs can be a challenge.

For example, those on the autism spectrum may have difficulty with stressful social interactions which could make team sports like basketball, football or field hockey. uncomfortable, while individual sports like golf, horseback riding or swimming could be ideal. That same individual might also enjoy and have greater opportunity to build social skills in a more low-key group setting, such as art classes or a computer or coding camp.

Whether exploring adaptive or fully inclusive programs, here are some tips for parents looking to evaluate social and recreational options for their child:

• Tap Your Network. Other parents are often the best sources for identifying disability-friendly programs, but also think about consulting school staff and other professionals, and asking for their insights and suggestions for social and recreation options.
• Inquire in Advance. Whether you approach a program in person, over the phone, by email or online form, it can be helpful to explain that you are inquiring on behalf of someone who has special needs, and that you would like to ask a few questions about the program. This makes it more likely that you'll connect with someone in a position of authority, who can answer your questions and, if applicable, discuss any necessary accommodations to serve your child. HAPPY CAMPERS: In the United States, all programs are legally required to serve those with disabilities. Nonetheless, locating programs that are a good fit for a child with special needs can be a challenge.
• Work Collaboratively. Parents can better ensure their children have a good experience, if they approach programs and organizations with a collaborative mindset that seeks to find sensible solutions for overcoming possible barriers to inclusion.
• Ask Questions. Every family's situation is unique, so think through the specific types of challenges your child

might encounter with a given program. Here are just a few examples:

• Do you currently serve any individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities that you know of at this time?
• What is your adult-to-student ratio for classes and/or activities offered?
• Can you provide the additional support my child needs, such as toileting and feeding? Share examples of any specific assistance your child might need.

• Scout the Location. This is particularly important if your child uses a wheelchair, has other mobility challenges, or tends to wander or be drawn to potentially unsafe features, such as pools and ponds. You'll want to make sure the environment is both safe and conducive to your child fully participating in program activities. It can also be a good idea to visit the location with your child ahead of time, to help ease potential anxieties from unfamiliar sounds and smells, and get acquainted with staff or instructors.

Finally, if you find a program that seems otherwise ideal for your child, but is unable to provide all of the additional support your child needs to participate, don't give up. Help may be available through your local disability services agency. At Regional Center of Orange County, where I work, we regularly assist families in securing disability-related accommodations, as well as one-on-one aides that can enable full inclusion for those with special needs, in traditional social and recreation programs.•

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A clinical psychologist, Bonnie Ivers, M.A., Psy.D., is Clinical Director for Regional Center of Orange County, the private, nonprofit organization contracted by the State of California to coordinate lifelong services and supports for nearly 25,000 Orange County residents with developmental disabilities and their families. The Regional Center is the first stop for those seeking to obtain local services and supports to help them live safely and with dignity in the community. Developmental disabilities include intellectual disabilities, autism, epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Learn more at rcocdd.com