Criteria for ADHD-Friendly Summer Programs: An Overnight Camp Guide

Summer camp can be such a valuable experience for kids as it can introduce them to new friendships, challenges, and perspectives. For kids with ADHD, it can also be a great confidence booster. The social reset that comes with being in a new supportive environment can help them step out of their comfort zones. It is important to find a summer camp that understands the needs of kids with ADHD to ensure a positive experience.

Unfortunately, every year some kids with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD are asked to leave camp because the staff was not equipped to support them. Even campers with inattentive ADHD can struggle if the camp does not understand their unique needs and end up feeling left out. When choosing a summer camp for your child with ADHD, it is important to find programs that involve physical activity that benefits both their body and mind. Avoid camps that focus too much on screen-based activities.

Camps with unstructured schedules may not work for kids with ADHD who need structure and routine. Find out how much free play or choice activities are allowed and ensure they are encouraged to participate in all activities without being forced. It is also important for the staff to notify parents if their child is sitting out of activities for any reason.

Kids with ADHD benefit from developing self-soothing and calming strategies that will help them in moments of emotional dysregulation at camp and elsewhere. A good summer camp will encourage these strategies while ensuring that the child is not left out or forgotten. Informing the camp staff in advance about your child's strengths and how to support them, including any strategies used before, is also helpful. By providing helpful information, parents can foster a collaborative relationship with the staff that can benefit their child.

Finally, it is essential to disclose the ADHD diagnosis to the camp staff and inquire whether they understand what it means. Parents should never withhold this information. If the child takes ADHD medication during the school day, they should continue it at camp, so discuss this with your prescribing physician.

Ryan Wexelblatt, LCSW, is the director of ADHD Dude & Trip Camp in Margate, New Jersey, and Tucson, Arizona. He creates videos for parents and kids on the ADHD Dude YouTube channel. If you are interested in supporting the ADHD community, consider subscribing to ADDitude.