For mom Jessica Kepich, of Parma, finding a summer program for her son Max, 7, who has autism and is nonverbal, is a big relief.
“We wanted to make sure he has something in the summer,” she says. “It’s life-changing to be able to drop your child off somewhere where you know that they’re being understood, you know that they’re being taken care of.”
Over the years, that place has been S.T.A.R. Summer Camp, an integrated camp that focuses on social skills, academics and physical activity.
Kepich and her family have been able to pay for camp through the Family Supports Program from the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Cuyahoga DD). It provides eligible families funding of up to $1,500 annually on a first come, first serve basis. It also can provide funding for things such as respite care, technology and equipment.
“I think people are needing the services probably to a greater degree,” says Janice Phillips, contract services manager at Cuyahoga DD. “It’s just that a little bit of funding can really make a big difference in a family’s life.”
“It means everything,” Kepich says. “It’s the difference between not being able to afford a summer program and then having that godsend where it’s like, “Oh my gosh, we are in; we found something.”
As summer approaches, many families like the Kepiches will begin their preparations for camp.
Kepich provides a little insight on how she helps Max get ready for camp.
Lots of Information
Sometimes, sending your kids to camp can be nerve-racking, especially for those parents who have kids that need extra support. Lots of details matter to provide to camp staff.
“Most camps that are accepting special needs children have truly thought of everything,” Kepich says.
She notes there is typically a long list of questions before camp to answer and you can make note of what exactly your child’s needs are. Camps also will likely require you to send your child’s Individualized Education Plan.
“The most important questions would be those that are in direct consideration of your child’s needs,” Kepich says. “I try to discuss (needs) with staff openly and honestly. Parents know their children best, so over explain any helpful details to them. You’ll feel better as a parent giving the staff anything and everything relevant to your child’s needs/day.”
Preparing Your Child
Kepich says they use visual schedules and Max’s Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) with pictures to go over the new routine.
“Orientation helped a lot,” she says. “Going there beforehand and checking the place out, explaining what he’ll be doing and meeting the staff is a huge help and something I would recommend to any parent.”
On the first day of sending Max to camp, Kepich felt excited.
“I knew that Max was going to a place where he was not only fully equipped with the proper support, but having met and engaged with staff prior — it felt great,” she says. “We had discussed his needs along with my concerns. Max knew exactly where we were going and what we were going to do. He was excited and happy, which then made me even more excited and happy for him. I was waiting on pins and needles to see any pictures from the day, since my son is nonverbal.”
She adds to ask all the questions and trust your gut.
“As a special needs parent, our job is to worry,” Kepich says. “Camps that accept our children know that, and are sensitive to our needs and concerns. Overcommunicate and learn to trust. I couldn’t be more excited and happy for our summer camp this year. It’s a wonderful time for my son, and he truly has so much fun. I hope he cherishes those memories each year.”
Camp Funding
If you are looking for ways to pay for camp, you can check with school district programs, inquire about scholarships when reaching out to camps, or reach out to your local board of developmental disabilities for any funding opportunities. Here’s just a few if you live in these counties.
Cuyahoga DD’s Family Supports Program: cuyahogadd.org/services/family-supports-program
Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities: mcbdd.org/service-funding
Portage County of Developmental Disabilities: portagedd.org