We believe that children are first and foremost children, regardless of need or ability. Preapproval required for support prior to camp registration. Please contact Carolynn Kaufman, Director of Special Needs Programming, at 203-920-1656 or by email.

Special Cares Support at Camp Mini (Ages 3-5, Pre-K), & Camp Y-Ki (Completed Grades K-5), & L.I.T. (Completed Grades 6-7)

Inclusion Option:
With the aid of our YSN support services, the New Canaan YMCA offers campers with varying limitations the opportunity to participate in a traditional camp experience at our three full-day camps. At Camp Mini and Camp Y-Ki, campers are immersed in camp groups and scheduled activities. This is a fully-inclusive program as ability allows, and campers are encouraged to participate in scheduled group activities such as swimming, sports, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, special events, and field trips. The YSN department offers eligible campers a 1:1 or 1:2 counselor-to- camper ratio (at no additional cost to registrants) for up to four weeks of camp, providing individualized support and encouragement to participate in camp activities at their own pace within the structured program.

Special cares support is designed for campers who require additional direction and support, but do not require intensive behavioral and/or physical intervention.

ESY/Half-Day Option at Camp Y-Ki:
Adjusted camp fee will be offered for those campers who would benefit from a half-day camp option with assistance, or who will be attending the morning ESY program and will attend Camp Y-Ki in the afternoons with school supported staff. Participants will attend camp Monday-Thursday beginning at lunchtime and if appropriate, a full day on Fridays. This program is only available at Camp Y-Ki and to be eligible requires prior approval from YMCA Director of Special Needs and the Special Education staff at child’s school.

Camp Jam for Teens & Young Adults (Ages 13+)

Specialized Program:

Located at our Y, this camp 6-week camp is specifically designed to meet the needs of our participants with special needs who require additional direction and support, but do not require intensive behavioral and/or physical intervention. This specialized camp offers a high staff-to-camper ratio and a structured schedule that rotates weekly to offer: swimming, art therapy, music therapy, free play in Higgins gym, group fitness, with a personal trainer, drama, cooking, and Wednesday special events (ie: Animal Embassy, African Drumming, Mad Science, Ice Cream Truck).  Camp Jam offers participants the opportunity to participate in an enriching summer camp experience while developing skills, building friendships, staying active, and most importantly having fun!

Ages:
Ages 13+ years

Hours:
Monday – Thursday
3:00 – 5:00 PM
*Activities begin at 3:15 PM

Registration

Registration for Camp Jam or YSN Support at Camp Mini, Camp Y-Ki, or Sports Camp needs prior approval and is done on a first-come, first-served basis as we can accommodate.  Space is limited and participation enrollment is not guaranteed.

First-time participants must meet with Director of Special Needs prior to registering.

In addition to required camp forms, all YSN camp paperwork must be completed to register for YSN support and specialized camps. *CAMPERS MUST BE TOILET-TRAINED*

To register or for additional information, contact Carolynn Kaufman, Director of Special Needs Programming at
ckaufman@newcanaanymca.org or 203- 920-1656.