Assessing and Including Students with Disabilities in Summer Programs

Abstract

Recreation and leisure activities are important to the quality of life for all individuals. Through various activities, individuals have opportunities to improve their overall health, self-concept, develop social skills and become part of a small community group. With the emphasis on including individuals with disabilities and good health within the community, it is important that all individuals are provided with this opportunity. Summer programs to include students with a diagnosed disability are becoming more accessible and available. Parents oftentimes look for opportunities for their children during the summer months, either in the forms of day, overnight camps or enrichment type activities. While many camps and summer programs exist specifically for students with a diagnosed disability, there are programs that are more inclusive and provide specific accommodations to assure successful inclusion of all types of children. Public institutions and entities are required by law to make summer programs available to all children. This paper will present some concrete steps to help ensure that all students, including students with disabilities, can, to the maximum extent appropriate, participate in the summer camp programs.