Summer camp can be a magical time—new friends, exciting activities, independence. But for neurodivergent children, especially those who are Autistic or have ADHD, the transition to a new, unfamiliar setting can also bring anxiety and uncertainty.
Whether it’s a day camp or an overnight program, preparing your child in advance can make a world of difference. Many neurodivergent kids benefit from being pretaught—having clear, concrete information and emotional support before a big change. Here are three steps to set your child up for the best camp experience possible:
Step 1: Use Online Visuals and Videos to Preview Camp Life
Many neurodivergent children are visual learners. Whether they’re Autistic or have ADHD, they tend to process new information best through pictures and videos. Use that strength to your advantage when introducing the idea of camp.
Tips:
- Visit the camp’s website with your child and explore photos, FAQs, and daily schedules together.
- Ask your child what they want to know—meals, sleeping arrangements, activities—and explore those details online.
- Check the camp’s social media platforms (YouTube,TikTok, Instagram, Facebook) for short videos, reels, or walkthroughs.
Watching these visuals together reduces unknowns, builds familiarity, and gives your child a mental roadmap of what to expect.
Step 2: Create a Wonder Journal to Explore Emotions
Anticipating camp can bring out a mix of feelings—excitement, fear, curiosity, and everything in between. A Wonder Journal gives your child a safe place to express those thoughts, helping them process emotions before the big day.
For Children Who Enjoy Writing:
- Give your child a special journal and encourage them to write freely about their feelings or questions.
- Prompt them gently: “What are you excited about?” “What are you wondering?” “What are you nervous about?”
- Don’t insert your own concerns—just follow your child’s lead.
For Non-Writers:
- Have a relaxed conversation and jot down their thoughts for them.
- Make the moment cozy with a snack or a comfy setting.
How to Address Concerns:
After journaling, revisit any concerns calmly and stick to the facts.
Example:
- Child: “What if I get anxious?”
- You: “What would you do if that happened now?” Walk through strategies they already know—breathing, asking for help, sensory tools—so they feel empowered.
- Concerned about homesickness? Pack a comforting item from home, like a family photo or a t-shirt that smells like mom or dad.
Step 3: Build Daily Excitement with Notes and Surprises
Uncertainty is hard—but knowing there’s a little surprise waiting each day can help ease that feeling. Create a daily anchor of connection with positive notes or mini packages from home.
Ideas for Daily Notes:
- Pack sealed envelopes labeled “Day 1,” “Day 2,” etc.
- Include encouraging messages like:
- “Be brave today—love you!”
- “Try something new. I’m proud of you.”
- “Smile at a new friend!”
Mini Gift Ideas:
- A glowstick for nighttime fun
- Stickers or a joke book
- A couple of dollars for the camp store
- Hair accessories, fidget toys, or cozy socks
Let your child know these surprises are just for them—and can only be opened at camp. These tiny touches from home can be big emotional lifelines.
Final Thoughts: Help Your Child Grow Through Camp
Preparation builds confidence. When your neurodivergent child has the tools to visualize, process, and emotionally connect with their camp experience, they’re not just surviving—they’re thriving.
Your behind-the-scenes support makes the difference between overwhelm and opportunity. With these three simple steps, you’re giving your child a solid foundation for success, growth, and maybe even some summer magic.
Need a printable checklist or parent guide version of these tips? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to create one for you!
Stacy Triplat, CCC-SLP
Educational Parent Coach | Autism Specialist | Creative Designer
Stacy Triplat helps families, educators, and neurodivergent children grow with clarity, care, and creativity through real-world strategies, affirming visuals, and empowering resources.
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