Selecting the right summer camp means choosing a program that balances structure, fun, and skill-building while supporting your child’s social, emotional, and developmental needs.
Parents have different reactions and emotions about summer approaching, and selecting the right summer camp. Some anticipate relief from busy schedules and a break from meetings and other school obligations. In addition, parents may be excited to be able to spend days outside where their active kids can get plenty of exercise. Some parents begin to worry about long unstructured days with battles over limiting screen time. For parents of children who struggle in school either academically or socially, there are worries about losing skills or falling farther behind. It’s not unusual for parents to have all of these feelings at the same time!
Children can also have a wide rage of reactions to summer. For example, they may be excited about not having to do homework or needing to get up early to go to school. They may say that they only want to play all summer long. However, even if kids don’t admit it, most benefit from having structured time during the summer. Without structure, they may have a hard time figuring out what to do and complain about being bored. On the other hand, they may run the risk of becoming overstimulated or overtired because they don’t take the breaks they need. Either situation can result in behavior problems and/or battles with siblings.
For parents of kids who struggle in school or in big, busy environments, it may be hard to think about them being successful in a summer camp environment. Parents may worry about their child’s social or play skills and ability to do well at camp activities. However, there are great options for summer activities that reinforce providing an adaptive environment that fosters success. This is important both for elementary and middle school age children. Within a supportive environment, children can develop positive experiences, while avoiding the academic, motor and social backsliding that occurs during long summer breaks.
When looking for a summer program for their kids, parents can consider several different points. Based on the article, “8 Types of Summer Camps That Can Be Good for Kids with Learning and Attention Issues” from Understood.org. A good camp option is to seek out programs that work on social skills. “If your child has trouble making friends and fitting in you might want to look into camps that specialize in social skills issues. These camps are usually geared toward kids with certain learning and attention issues. These include ADHD, nonverbal learning disabilities and language processing issue. Kids enjoy typical camp activities. But they also spend structured time working on social skills.” Other programs that may be a good fit include camps that build outdoor skills, camps that build specific interests such as drama, sports or science, general camps with small group sizes, camps that focus on inclusion, and camps that focus on service learning. These camps provide the balance between structure and flexibility that your child needs.
After finding summer camp options, there are several questions to ask in determining the best fit. Will the camp boost skills to prepare for a great start back to school in the fall? Will it provide a challenge or new experience? Will it begin to build confidence? When making the choice, it is good to keep in mind balancing parent and child preferences.
After deciding on the best camp option, the next step is to get familiar with the program. Parents can talk about the type of activities and teach their children about what to expect. It may be good to visit the location to become familiar with the surroundings. If possible, parents and children can meet some of the staff or get a general daily schedule.
If you are in the process of planning for summer, we have put together some great resources for you.
- CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). This page has webinars and articles about summer camps.
- From the Southpaw website is the article Skillfully Scheduling Summer
- Look for camp options at your school district’s Community Bulletin Board such as this one from West-Linn Wilsonville.
- The Autism Society of Oregon Resource Page has summer camp and activity listings.
- Visit the New Horizons Wellness Services Summer Camps page to learn about our therapeutic camp options.
Conclusion
Selecting the right summer camp can feel overwhelming, especially with the mix of emotions and concerns that often accompany the season. Parents may be excited for a change in routine while simultaneously worrying about structure, screen time, or academic regression. Kids, too, have their own blend of excitement and uncertainty. The key is recognizing that every child is unique—and so are their summer needs.
By exploring a range of camp options—from those focused on social skills and inclusion to those that nurture specific interests or provide therapeutic support—families can find a program that offers the right balance of structure, fun, and growth. At New Horizons Wellness Services, our team offers a variety of supports that complement these goals. Our Counseling Services help children manage anxiety, transitions, and behavioral challenges that may arise during unstructured summer months. Through Occupational Therapy Services, we assist children in building self-regulation, sensory processing, and fine motor skills to ensure they’re well-equipped for both play and learning.
For adults seeking continued support, we also provide occupational therapy for adults to address stress management, executive functioning, and life balance—especially relevant for parents navigating summer routines. Our pediatric occupational therapy helps children thrive in social and physical environments like camp by improving daily living and play skills. Additionally, our Social Skills Group programs support kids in building confidence, communication, and positive peer interactions—all essential for a successful camp experience.
Asking thoughtful questions, preparing your child for what to expect, and getting to know the program ahead of time all help ensure a successful and enriching experience.
With the right planning and resources, summer camp can become more than just a way to fill time—it can be a meaningful opportunity for your child to build confidence, develop new skills, and make lasting memories. Contact us now to learn how we can support your family’s journey this summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider if my child struggles with social skills or has learning differences when choosing a summer camp?
Look for camps that specifically support children with social or learning challenges—such as those focused on social skills development, inclusion, or small group environments. These camps often provide structured routines, trained staff, and adaptive activities designed to help children feel successful and supported. Therapeutic programs like those offered at New Horizons Wellness Services can also be beneficial in building confidence and communication before or during the camp season.
How can I help my child transition smoothly into a new summer camp experience?
Preparing your child in advance is key. Discuss the camp schedule, visit the camp location if possible, and introduce them to some of the staff. For children who are anxious or have difficulty with transitions, services such as pediatric occupational therapy or counseling can help them develop coping strategies, emotional regulation, and readiness for new environments.
Can summer camp actually support my child’s development, or is it just for fun?
While summer camps are certainly fun, the right camp can also promote growth in social, emotional, and physical development. Camps that focus on social interaction, outdoor play, creativity, or specific interests can build new skills and reinforce existing ones. When paired with supportive services like occupational therapy or social skills groups, camps become a powerful tool for maintaining progress over the summer.
Yours in Health,
New Horizons Wellness Services8880 SW Nimbus Ave Suite C.,
Beaverton, OR 97008
- https://g.page/newhws
New Horizons Wellness Services provides a true multidisciplinary approach to mental & physical health treatments for children, adults and families.