Whether your child wants to attend summer camp for a single day, a week, or a month, we have the lowdown on disability-friendly programs in the San Francisco Bay Area! The Undivided Research Team put together this list of camps and classes that either welcome kids with disabilities or accommodate them in their inclusive programs. These camps are listed by theme or interest, so you can tailor your kiddo's summer to their interests and the skills they want to build.
Looking for accessible summer camps elsewhere in California? Find our full list here.
Website
2479 E. Bayshore Road, Ste 170
Palo Alto, CA 94303
info@e-sports.org
Format: Online
Exceptional Sports is an inclusive virtual sports program developing athletic skills and teamwork.
Location: Throughout the Bay Area, including San Francisco, Sunnyvale, San Jose, Hayward, and more. Each program is hosted at multiple locations.
Dates and times: Ongoing, seasonal sports. Check the below links for season dates and announcements.
Age range: 3 and up
Cost: Free
Register: Registration for camps can be done online.
1:1 aide: Please email to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
3480 Buskirk Ave #340
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
(925) 944-8801
info@sonc.org
Format: In-person
Special Olympics Northern California “transforms lives through the joy of sport, every day, everywhere.” It is “the world's largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities, with 4.4 million athletes in 170 countries and millions more volunteers and supporters.” They believe that through participation in sports, those with intellectual disabilities have an opportunity to find new strengths, abilities, and skills. In a typical year, they offer 12 sports, both individual and team sports, including Athletics (Track and Field), Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Flag Football, Floor Hockey, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, and Volleyball.
Disabilities served: Intellectual disabilities
Location: San Francisco, Contra Costa, Marin, Alameda, and more.
Dates and times: Summer sports include Softball (June-August) and Golf (July-September). Check your local program for dates, times, and other details.
Age range: 8 years old and up
Cost: Free
Register: Register online to be an athlete, then register for available sports. Registration is open May 15–June 10.
1:1 aide: Please email to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this program would be a good fit.
Website
4000 Middlefield Rd #D5
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 729-9882
info@brainvyne.com
Format: In-person
Brainvyne is an “inclusive program and believes that all children should have access to quality educational programs.” They host many seasonal camps with exciting activities involving LEGO gears, axles, battery packs, LEGO robotics, creating animations, money management, and more. Children are grouped by age and will learn the fundamentals of simple machines through play.
Location: Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Fremont, and Santa Clara
Dates and times: Camps are offered between June and August, divided into age groups with programs for each. All weekly camps run from Monday through Friday with full-day (9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) and half-day (9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.) options available.
Age range: 4–15 years old
Cost: Half-day option for three days is $699. Three full days is $899, or $199 per full day.
Register: Registration for camps can be done online.
1:1 aide: Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
Multiple locations throughout California
(855) 446-4652
Format: In-person
Code Ninjas is a nationwide franchise dedicated to providing fun and educational STEAM and tech classes for kids with hands-on science and social skills curriculum.
Location: Multiple locations throughout California. Find a camp near you and check out class schedules with their location finder.
Dates and times: Dates and times vary based on class and location.
Age range: 5–15 years old
Cost: Camps range in price based on location.
Register: Registration begins by selecting your preferred Code Ninjas facility and class through their website.
1:1 aide: Contact your selected Code Ninjas center to discuss the needs of your child and the possibility of accommodating aides in the classroom.
Website
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 342-7755
info@curiodyssey.org
Format: In-person
For kids who are wild about animals, CuriOdyssey offers an engrossing program allowing them to study animals and experiment with scientific phenomena. CuriOdyssey’s mission is to “inspire love for science and curiosity about the world to create a brighter future.” They provide an immersive science experience that is “inclusive of diverse learning abilities, driven by the camper, and conducted with the utmost respect for your child as an intelligent learner.” Their summer camp themes include Ocean Adventure, Museum Medley, Art Investors, Gadgets & Gizmos, Junior Keepers, and Nature Quest. Specific information on the camp and a FAQ can be found here on their website.
Location: CuriOdyssey Science Playground & Zoo, San Mateo
Dates and times: Camp is divided into 10 weeks from June through August, with each week having two themes per age group. See their camp schedule for more details. All camps run Monday through Friday.
Age range: Camp is divided into grade groups: Entering TK/Kinder, entering first or second grade, and entering third or fourth grade
Cost: Entering TK/Kinder camp is $615 per week, and the other camps are $865 per week. (Rates are decreased during the week of July 4.) Post-Camp Care is $50 per week. Scholarships are available.
Register: Register online. If you are not already a member, please register as a member before registering for camp. Their camp directors request that families of kids with disabilities let them know in the registration process so that they can hear parental suggestions and prepare for a successful session with the camper.
1:1 aide: Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
953 North Elm Street
Orange, CA 92867
(657)255-7855
info@destinationscience.org
Format: In-person
Destination Science is a nationwide franchise dedicated to providing fun and educational STEAM-themed camps for kids with hands-on science and social skills curriculum. 2024’s camp themes are DinoBot Builders & Crazy Chem Lab, Superhero Physics Fun Camp, and Space Base Astronaut Camp. If you’re unsure whether the camp is the best fit for your child’s specific needs, contact them directly to discuss accommodations.
Location: Multiple locations throughout Northern California. See the full list of locations online here.
Dates and times: 2024 dates vary by location. Camp is offered in three weekly sessions that meet Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Age range: 5–11 years old
Cost: Costs vary depending on the camp you choose.
Register: Select your location and camp to find the registration link.
1:1 aide: Destination Science allows campers to attend with an aide. Read their Policy and Procedure Form for Aides for more information.
Website
1021 3rd St.
Oakland, CA 94607
(800) 854-3684
Format: In-person
Galileo encourages children to think like innovators by creating new crafts, building, or inventing something every week, sparking their curiosity and imagination. This summer, Galileo is offering six week-long themed camps: Theme Park Rides, Dino Excavation, Castles and Catapults, Traveling Circus, Dinosaur Disguises, and Royal Celebration. The curriculum of each camp is adjusted based on the age range of the camper.
Location: There are Galileo Camps locations throughout California. Check their Camp Finder for a location near you.
Dates and times: Dates vary by location, but camps run Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Extended care options are available for an additional fee.
Age range: Pre-K to eighth grade
Cost: Pricing varies by location and program; on average, the cost ranges $375–$500 per week. Extended care options are available for an additional cost, $40 for 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m. and $80 for 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. They are working on becoming vendored with Regional Center and will accept Self-Determination funding.
Register: Sign up for camp online. Scholarships are available, and reach out to the camp to discuss using Regional Center and Self-Determination funding.
1:1 aide: Aides are generally accepted, subject to approval by Galileo Camps. Camps have a 12:1 camper-to-staff ratio. Per their Accessibility Statement, “We strive to design programs that take all campers and staff into account. That said, we will not always be able to accommodate each individual’s specific needs. Most common needs and/or potential challenges are often accounted for, and we know that every person and family is unique. We commit to providing transparency and support during your camp selection process and your week(s) at camp. This includes guiding you to make the best decision possible when choosing your camp program.”
Website
P.O. Box 111720
Campbell, CA 95011
(888) 709-8324
hello@iDTech.com
Format: In-person, online, and sleepaway
iDTech offers an immersive environment on college campuses for kids seeking to learn computer programming languages and game design. Classes include week-long studies of computing topics such as Roblox, Minecraft, game design, Java, Lua Coding, modding, BattleBots, Python, Unity, and AI. For kids who are interested in learning about transitioning to life on a college campus, there is the option for sleeping in the dorms. For students who prefer to access their camp online, there are two-week virtual summer camps. Testimonials from families of twice-exceptional students with interest in STEM have found this summer program to be a good fit and a scaffolded introduction to college life.
Location: Palo Alto, Berkeley, San Francisco, Sacramento, Irvine, Los Angeles, and more.
Dates and times: Camps are offered in June and July with specific dates depending on the location. Most camps run Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., but be sure to review the times for your selected course.
Age range: Ages depend on the course, ranging 7–17 years old.
Cost: Cost depends on the camp selected, starting at $1,049. Payment plans are available. Need-based scholarships are available via an online application.
Register: Once you have selected your preferred location, navigate down to the “Courses available” section. From the table of available courses and spots, click on the week your camper would like to attend. This will expand a registration form and more details about the camp. Fill out the basic information under “Let’s get started!” and follow the on screen prompts to complete.
1:1 aide: Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
4546 El Camino Real Ste B9
Los Altos, CA 94022
info@kidzzinc.com
Type of camp: In-person
Kidizens is an “innovative educational environment that encourages collaborative and guided discovery of real-world concepts while role-playing and having fun in a universe built of LEGO.” The organization's mission is to “cultivate creative, critical and civically responsible thinking that can be the foundational pillar of future learning in life.” Two themes will be featured this year: Build a City and Launch a Business.
Location: Los Altos, Belmont, Berkeley, San Francisco, San Mateo, Redwood City, Palo Alto, San Jose, and North Bay. See their website for maps.
Dates and times: June 3–August 23, 2024, depending on location, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Age range: 6–11 years old
Cost: The cost of the camp starts at $479 per week for some locations, with the majority of the week-long camps being $574. The two-week option starts at $1,098.
Register: Registration for camps can be accessed online.
1:1 aides: Campers are grouped in pairs of two or three based on age. Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
500 Discovery Parkway
Redwood City, CA 94063
(650)364-2760
camp@sfbaymsi.org
Format: In-person
The Summer Marine Science Camp, along with school programs and workshops, is taught by the marine biologists of the Marine Science Institute “to inspire environmental stewardship through hands-on learning and exploration of San Francisco Bay ecosystems.” For kids who can’t get enough hands-on learning about marine life, this camp allows for ”interactions with live marine animals and themed science activities.” Campers study local habitats and animals at the Redwood City site and get to ride the 90-foot research vessel, the Robert G. Brownlee. Some camps spend the entire time on the ship while others have time split between the ship and field trips.
Location: Redwood City
Dates and times: Camps are available between June 10 and August 9, 2024. All camps run Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Age range: Grades K-8.
Cost: $665-$1,430 depending on the camp.
Register: Sign up for camp by registering online. Need-based scholarships are available and applications are due by April 15, 2024.
1:1 aide: Contact camp@sfbaymsi.org to ensure this camp is a good fit for your child’s particular needs.
Website
1291 E. Hillsdale Blvd., Suite 201
Foster City, CA 94404
(650) 638-0500
campinfo@techknowhowkids.com
Type of camp: In-person
Tech Know How holds camps on technology and computers, including Minecraft, Roblox, LEGO, robotics, and game coding. The organization’s mission is to “provide children and teens with meaningful STEM education through projects they love.” Themes this year include: LEGO Minions in Motion (ages 5-8), LEGO Max (ages 6-9), Minecraft Big Builders (ages 6-9), Intermediate Minecraft (ages 7-11), Girls Tech Academy (ages 7-11), EV3 Robotics & Game Making (ages 8-12), and Roblox & Minecraft Modding (ages 9-13).
Location: Several locations in San Francisco, Peninsula, East Bay and South Bay
Dates and times: June 10–August 9, 2024. Camps run 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Age range: Each camp is designed for a specific age group, ranging from 5 to 13 years old.
Cost: Three-day camp is $335, and the five-day option is $540. Extended care and sibling discounts are offered.
Register: Registration for camps can be done online.
1:1 aide: Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
682 Schofield Rd
San Francisco, CA 94129
(415) 766-7647
info@tinkeringschool.com
Format: In-person
Tinkering Camp takes place at The Presidio in the heart of San Francisco. It is the summer curriculum of Brightworks School and has been a big hit with kids who love to make things with their hands and engage with their creativity. These camps offer a wide range of ways for campers to be creative, from art to LARP and building. Along with camps, they offer after-school programs, weekend workshops, overnight camps, and day camps. The camp is an “immersive, hands-on maker experience” with unique project themes each summer. Past projects have included a 25-foot-tall dancing marionette, a NASA-style space mission, and a human-sized foosball table. This summer’s programs include Tinkerers (age 8-16), Young Builders (6-8), Robotics (9-13), Art (8-13), and LARP (no specific age range).
Location: San Francisco
Dates and times: Weekly camps are held June 24-August 16, 2024, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Age range: 6–16 years old
Cost:
Register: Sign up through the UltraCamp registration system. Financial aid is available by registering for the session(s) you’re interested in and selecting “Financial Aid” on the payment page. You will be asked to put down a $5 deposit to hold a space for each session. You will receive an email with next steps.
1:1 aide: Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
Sloat Blvd., The Great Highway
San Francisco, CA 94132
(415) 753-7080
Format: In-person
Campers will learn about animals, habitats, biodiversity hotspots, and conservation efforts while exploring the different regions of the earth. Zoo Camp is known to be inclusive; lessons and activities are age appropriate and designed for multiple learning styles. The zoo also offers a Leadership Fellowship and Conservation Corps Programs for students age 14 and up. Fellows assist Summer Zoo Camp teachers with activities such as tours, crafts, and games, and help zoo campers explore the world of animals and conservation.
Location: San Francisco Zoo & Gardens
Dates and times: There are weekly camp sessions June 17–August 9, 2024 excluding the week of July 4. Camp runs Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Age range: 4–17 years old
Cost: $480 per week.
Register: Online registration opens March 20 at 10:00 a.m. In the meantime, they recommend joining their Zoo Camp mailing list here for updates. You can also check out the 2024 camp FAQs on their website.
1:1 aide: Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit for you.
Website
14110 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(408) 356-6456
info@danceattack.com
Format: In-person
Dance Attack offers year-round dance programs for students of all ages including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, and Acro. Their summer camps are for children ages 5–8 and are themed on fun topics like Barbie, Super Mario, Disney, and Space. During the summer, they welcome students of all abilities who are interested in one of their week-long, half-day camps. Their RhythmWorks-certified teacher leads many of their camps, and their facility is wheelchair-accessible.
Dance Attack also offers specialized classes for students with disabilities year-round. Per their recommendations, “Dancers who receive very specific accommodations at school or the workplace may be best suited to study dance in our adaptive program for dancers with special needs. This helps us to be sure our teachers are able to match the education plan you have in place to help maintain consistency across learning platforms.” Their Los Gatos classes for students with disabilities are on Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. for ages 7-15 and 6:45 p.m. for adults.
Disabilities served: Students of all skill levels and those with disabilities, including teens and adults with developmental disabilities and individuals in wheelchairs.
Location: Los Gatos and Sunnyvale
Dates and times: Mondays to Fridays June 17–August 2, 2024
Age range: 5–8 years old
Cost: $375 per week
Register: To register, create a parent account on their website here.
1:1 aide: Aides and parents are welcome to attend.
Website
P.O. Box 149
Graton, CA 95444
(707) 569-4859
christophermelville@fanwar.com
Format: In-person
The Fanwar LARP organization hosts events and games for the community. Their summer day camp is essentially a game of Dungeons and Dragons brought to life. During Fanwar camps, kids will have a chance to learn more about live-action roleplaying and create their own characters. While in character, campers will participate in fantasy battles with one another, build skills, and engage in creative adventures. Campers must bring their own lunches to camp.
Location: Mitchell Park, Palo Alto and Willard Libby Park, Sebastopol
Dates and times: Both locations host camp Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m–5:00 p.m., with no new players accepted during the fourth week.
Age range: 9 and older. Exceptions can be made for 8-year-olds who already have siblings attending the camp.
Cost: $425 per week in Palo Alto and $325 per week in Sebastopol
Register: To register for the Palo Alto camp, fill out this online form. To register for the Sebastopol camp, fill out this online form. Both forms should be emailed to Head Director Christopher Melville at christophermelville@fanwar.com.
1:1 aide: Contact Fanwar directly to see if they can accommodate an aide for your child.
Website
2533 R Street, Ste 120
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 568-1424
Format: In-person, full-day
Futures Explored Film + Media Studios is a vocational studio where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain working knowledge of film production and learn related skills. The different programs available are meant to help individuals “make entertaining, commercially viable and purposeful films.” During the summer, the studio hosts a Film Camp, which walks participants through the process of making a film step-by-step with a focus on collaboration and teamwork. Campers are also introduced to pre/post production, acting, directing, editing, technical support, and camera filming skills. For a peek into the program, check out the "Joey Travolta, Futures Explored Film Camp Comes to Livermore" article published in The Independent.
Dates and times: There are two total summer sessions, each focusing on a specific skill.
Location: Concord
Register: Register online.
Cost: $2,000 for session 1, which can be covered by RCEB. $1,200 for session 2, which may be covered by RCEB. Families can also check out Amy’s Wish, a nonprofit that helps families pay for camp.
Ages and disabilities served: Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 10-22.
1:1 aide: Contact for details.
Website
14855 Oka Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(408) 357-7416
chaverim@jvalley.org
Format: In-person
The Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center (APJCC) is a community-oriented nonprofit with a mission to “enhance Jewish life in Silicon Valley, and to provide social, cultural, educational, and recreational services for the entire community.” Camp Shalom and its Chaverim program are two examples of APJCC's mission in action, providing children with opportunities to connect with their community through traditional camp experiences. The Chaverim Inclusion Program acts as an add on to Camp Shalom, enabling campers with disabilities to connect with their peers through “integration and inclusion.” This is accomplished by assigning a 1:1 aide to campers, tailoring their experience, and providing accommodations. Camp Shalom, which welcomes children of all abilities, offers three camp experience options: traditional, focused, and specialty programs. In the traditional day camp experience, children have opportunities to participate in swimming, sports, arts and crafts, dance, music, and more. Each week, children can look forward to a unique theme and value, such as the “Camp’s Got Talent” theme with Community as the week’s value.
Disabilities served: Neurodiverse children and those with physical disabilities.
Dates and times: Camp runs Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., June 10–August 16, 2024. Check out their Camp Planner for more details.
Age range: 5-12 years old
Cost: The inclusion program costs $200 per week in addition to the regular camp fees ($575 for five-day camp, $460 for four-day camp, and $125for one-day camp). Check their Dates & Rates for discounts exclusive to members. Scholarships are available as well.
Registration: Begin the registration process by completing an interest form and emailing it to chaverim@jvalley.org. You’ll receive an email with an invitation to set up a “Get to Know You” interview. With everything submitted, the program will determine if this camp is the right fit for your child. Once approved, you can register for camp online. Please see their registration page for more details.
1:1 aides: The inclusion program offers 1:1 staff advocates who accompany the camper to provide “individualized and tailored support.” Your child can also bring their own 1:1 aide.
Website
Camden Community Center
3369 Union Ave.
San Jose, CA 95124
(408) 559-8553
inclusionsupport@sanjoseca.gov
Format: In-person
The City of San Jose’s Therapeutic Recreation Services offer two summer camp options for kids and teens. Younger kids with cognitive disabilities can sign up for Playcamp, a fun day camp featuring activities like arts and crafts, circle time, and field trips. Teens can take part in Teens Together, a safe and structured space to make new friends and learn skills.
Disabilities served: Cognitive disabilities
Location: Playcamp is at the Kirk Community Center, and Teens Together is at the Camden Community Center in San Jose.
Dates and times:
Age range: 5–12 years old for Playcamp and 12–18 years old for Teens Together
Cost: Playcamp costs $180, and Teens Together costs $200.
Register: You can register for Playcamp online here and Teens Together online here.
1:1 aide: Campers can bring personal attendants to either camp, but those attendants must pass a background check and provide proof of vaccination. The staff-to-camper ratio at Playcamp is normally 1:3, and the ratio at Teens Together is normally 1:4.
Website
3860 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 858-6990
info@bayareafc.org
Format: In-person
Friendship CIrcle offers many services to kids with disabilities in the San Francisco area by pairing teen volunteers with kids with disabilities and teaching them Jewish values and leadership skills. During this day camp, children and teens with disabilities will have fun and friendship with their teen buddies and peers while participating in a variety of themed activities including yoga, arts and crafts, sports, music, and much more.
Location: AchieveKids Palo Alto
Dates and times:
Age range: 5–19 years old
0 Cost: $750 per week. If your family requires financial assistance, reach out to lauren@bayareafc.org.
Register: If your child is new to Friendship Circle, first complete the general registration here and wait for them to contact you. Once approved, register for camp online.
1:1 aide: Although the camp doesn’t provide aides, each camper will be paired with a volunteer buddy. Inquire if they will also accept a child’s provided 1:1 aide.
Website
Eureka Valley Recreation Center
100 Collingwood St.
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 831-6810
rpdtr@sfgov.org
Format: In-person
San Francisco Recreation and Parks provides several summer days camps and other programs for children with disabilities. Younger kids with autism and developmental disabilities can participate in Everybody Plays, a camp designed for kids with a sense of adventure who want to explore the city. Older kids can learn navigation skills by signing up for Everybody Travels or build friendships and practice life skills by signing up for Teen City. Participants are welcome to bring comfort items. You can find more information about their Adaptive Camp options on pages 10–11 of the guidebook.
Disabilities served: Autism and developmental disabilities
Location: Eureka Valley Recreation Center in San Francisco
Dates and times: Each camp runs Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Age range: 6–12 for Everybody Plays. 9–15 years old for Everybody Travels. 13–18 years old for Teen City.
Cost: Everybody Plays and Teen City cost $187 per week. Everybody Travels costs $175 for the short week and $217 for the regular week.
Register: Registration for summer camp begins March 11 for individuals who receive a scholarship and March 16 for general registration. The registration instructions for campers with disabilities are online here.
1:1 aide: You can fill out an accommodations request if you’re interested in bringing a 1:1 aide for your camper.
Website
1215 O'Brien Dr.
Menlo Park, CA 94025
(650) 260-3805
info@openmindschool.org
Format: In-person
Open Minds Silicon Valley is a private school that incorporates therapeutic goals into their inclusive community camps, which are offered in the winter and summer. They strive to create a learning environment where progressive education and consideration for learning differences and disabilities take center stage. Open Minds’ school serves students from preschool through high school. They have many programs including a social innovation lab and a divergent fitness gym. Their summer camp’s purpose is to “ignite student imaginations, incorporate social and emotional and academic goals, all within hands-on activities in a thriving social environment.” Each week of camp is assigned a unique theme, which includes Animal Adventure, Ninja Warrior, Farm to Table, Mad Science, Water Fun, and more! Open Minds’ Menlo Park campus has a 13,000-square-foot Ninja Warrior gym, and they work to foster an inclusive atmosphere in their camps.
Location: Menlo Park
Dates and times: Weekly June 3–August 16, 2024, 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Age range: 4-14 years old
Cost: The cost of the camp is $130 per day or $550 per week.
Register: Registration for camps can be done online.
1:1 aide: The ratio of campers to counselors is 8:1, with 1:1 available as needed. Please call to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
58 West Portal Ave #800
San Francisco, CA 94127
(415) 604-0081
Format: In-person
While at Steve & Kate’s Camp, campers can choose from a variety of recreational activities including sewing, playground games, tinkering, making stop-motion animations, and playing games. Although Steve & Kate’s Camp isn’t specifically designed for kids with disabilities, they’ve had many campers with disabilities participate who have had a positive experience. The child must be able to participate in an environment that encourages self-direction and independence.
Location: Locations throughout California can be found here.
Dates and times: Camp dates vary by location and can be booked anywhere from a daily to monthly basis. Camps run between June 10 and August 16, 2024.
Age range: Pre-K through seventh grade
Cost: $120 per day or $3,600 for a summer-long pass. Lunch and snacks are included, and families can purchase as many day passes as they’d like. Need-based financial aid can be applied for online here.
Register: Registration for camps can be done online. Start by creating an account here.
1:1 aide: Although Steve & Kate’s Camp doesn’t have 1:1 aides on staff, they’re open to families sending an aide with their child. Contact the camp location you’re interested in to discuss those details.
Website
1017 Cedar Street
San Carlos, CA 94070
(650) 244-1519
Format: In-person
Arbor Bay School, located in San Carlos, offers a K-8 grade school curriculum for students with “mild to moderate learning differences” to achieve academic and social success. Their summer program works on academic skills, communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity taught by credentialed special education staff. They offer individualized academic support in Language Arts and Math, and Speech and Occupational Therapy are available for individual or small group sessions for an additional fee. Their Therapeutic Afterschool Program (TAP) includes lunch and afternoon camp activities like cooking, music, arts and crafts, sports/games, and park visits (for an additional fee).
Disabilities served: Learning disabilities and differences
Location: San Carlos
Dates and times: June 17–July 12, 2024, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Age range: Kindergarten to eighth grade
Cost: Their summer program is $4,356, and their TAP program is $60 for a full afternoon or $30 for 30 minutes.
Register: Fill out their form here. For new students, prepare for an observation, reports, interview, and screening with the program director to determine placement. Priority will be given to current students and those enrolling in fall 2024.
1:1 aide: All students need to be able to participate independently in a small group setting.
Website
525 San Antonio Ave.
Palo Alto, CA 94306
(650) 543-4560
info@athenaacademy.org
Format: In-person
Athena Academy works to help dyslexic and 2E kids “own” their neurodiverse talents and build their confidence. They offer programs like coding and programming to support dyslexic and 2E kids in exploring their interests and “unique ways of learning.” Their summer camps are designed to help children build confidence and foundational skills through multi-sensory education and engaging activities. Campers can explore their passions while practicing math, writing, and science. For testimonials from former campers, check out the Athena Academy website.
Disabilities served: Dyslexia and twice exceptional (2e) children
Location: Palo Alto
Dates and times:
Age range: First grade to eighth grade
Cost: $300 per camp if you register before March 17. After that, camps cost $350 each.
Register: You can register for the June Camp online here. You can register for the July Camp here.
1:1 aide: Reach out to Athena Academy to ask about sending a 1:1 aide with your child.
Website
584 Castro St., #287
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 322-0874
admin@bearfootoccupationaltherapy.com
Format: In-person
Bearfoot’s outdoor occupational therapy summer camp gives kids the chance to explore nature while becoming “stronger, braver, and more empathetic.” During camp, kids will engage in peer-to-peer play to build motor skills, practice emotional regulation, and improve social skills. As a parent, you’ll receive custom daily emails with summaries of what went on during your child’s day at camp as well as a progress note at the end of the camp experience. In addition to their regular summer camp offerings, Bearfoot also hosts a Food Explorers Camp for neurodivergent kids who find mealtimes stressful.
Disabilities served: Neurodivergent children
Location: McLaren Park and Presidio in San Francisco
Dates and times: Each week of camp between June 24 and August 2 runs Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Age range: 3–9 years old depending on the week you choose
Cost: $885 per week
Register: Sign up for camp online.
1:1 aide: Bearfoot only takes six campers per week, so the staff-to-camper ratio is always reasonable. Contact Bearfoot directly to see if you can send a 1:1 aide with your child.
Website
1405 Solana Dr.
Belmont, CA 94002
(650) 592-7570
Format: In-person
Charles Armstrong is focused on providing services for kids with dyslexia and other learning disabilities. They offer a summer school program for kids interested in building literacy and math skills while participating in creative, fun activities. While there are several summer school options for children already attending Charles Armstrong, campers do not have to be enrolled to attend Musical Theatre Camp.
Disabilities served: Dyslexia and related learning differences
Location: Belmont
Dates and times: June 24th–July 19, 2024, 12:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Age range: Third to eighth grade
Cost: $1,500
Register: Register online.
1:1 aide: Contact Charles Armstrong directly to see if your child can bring an aide to their summer program.
Website 3140 Balboa St. San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 971-8214 vanessa.kahlon@kfsschool.org
Please note: As of March 2024, the summer camps page has not been updated for summer 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and registration information. In the meantime, you can review the information below from 2023’s camp to get an idea of the program!
Format: In-person
Kahlon Family Services (KFS) School aims to give 2E students an inclusive, high-quality education. In the past, their summer camp has featured fun activities designed to help campers build STEAM, social-emotional, and physical skills. Last year’s camp also featured weekly field trips.
Disabilities served: Twice-exceptional (2E) students
Location: KFS School in San Francisco
Dates and times: In 2023, camp ran from July to August, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Age range: Kindergarten to eighth grade
Cost: Contact for details.
Register: Email Vanessa at vanessa.kahlon@kfsschool.org to begin the registration process.
1:1 aide: Reach out to ask about sending a 1:1 aide with your child.
Website
207 Skyline Blvd.
San Francisco, CA 94132
(415) 665-4100
cysoffice@prrcsf.org
Format: In-person day camp
Pomeroy is a community center that provides year-round programs for people with developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injuries. Through youth services, they aim to help young people build social skills and feel more independent. During Pomeroy’s summer day camp, kids and teens will participate in therapeutic and recreational activities, including swimming, cooking classes, and field trips.
Disabilities served: Developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury
Location: San Francisco
Dates and times: July 22–August 15, 2024, 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. There is also a morning program with limited availability that runs 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Age range: Kindergarten through twelfth grade Cost: The main program costs $75 per day, and the morning program costs $50 per day. There’s also a $25 deposit for enrolling.
Register: Registration for summer camp begins in mid-March. To register, fill out their online form and email a copy of your child’s IEP to cysoffice@prrcsf.org.
1:1 aide: Contact Pomeroy about sending your child with a 1:1 aide.
Website
171 Front St., #200
Danville, CA 94526
(800) 743-2900
Office Manager Alyson Cross: (925) 548-3797
Format: In-person
At Quest Camp, kids are given a space to have fun while building social and problem-solving skills. Quest hopes that campers will increase their confidence while participating in activities like drama, sports, music, singing, and art. Campers will also take part in a couple field trips throughout the summer. Quest Camp is an intensive summer program with only six campers meeting 30 hours per week.
Disabilities served: Quest Camp is for kids with mild social, emotional, and behavioral challenges and low support needs.
Location: Quest Camp will take place at a public school in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. The specific location will be determined in April.
Dates and times: Weekly programming June 17–July 26, 2024, 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Age range: 6-18 years old
Cost: Quest Camp costs $925 per week and $740 for the short week of July 4. Campers must register for at least three consecutive weeks. Discounts are available for campers registering for four or more weeks.
Register: You can register for Quest Camp using this online form.
1:1 aide: The staff-camper ratio is 1:6. Contact Quest to see if your child can bring a 1:1 aide.
Website
350 Gate 5 Road
Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 339-8800
Format: In-person
This outdoor camp allows kids to explore beautiful natural settings while participating in occupational therapy and building play skills. Parents will receive a weekly email update about campers’ activities and therapeutic growth as well as daily photos.
Location: Ring Mountain and Rodeo Beach
Dates and times: One week sessions June 17–August 16, 2024, Monday to Friday. Families can attend multiple weeks. Each day runs 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Age range: 4-13 years old
Cost: $885 per week. A $25 discount is applied for families that attend multiple weeks.
Register: Register online here.
1:1 aide: Friendship Explorations accepts personal attendants or will provide a 1:1 aide for an additional fee. Please contact them to discuss your child’s needs.
Website
650 Clark Way
Palo Alto, CA 94304
(650) 688-3605
summer@sandhillschool.org
Format: In-person
The summer session of Sand Hill School provides an accommodating school experience for children who have struggles with reading, writing, spelling, and/or mathematics. Sand Hill School works with children with varying needs who benefit from a specialized curriculum. In their summer program, kids participate in academic skill-building that balances fun activities featuring the student’s own interests and talents with evidence-based support in their areas of academic challenge. Academic instruction is given in the morning that includes work on executive functioning, social-emotional learning, reading, writing, and math. Afternoon enrichment camp focuses on areas of strength like cooking, performing arts, science, and more.
Disabilities served: Children with dyslexia, ADHD, language-based learning disabilities, school-based anxiety, or specific learning disabilities
Location: Palo Alto
Dates and times: June 11–June 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Age range: 8–11 years old
Cost: $2,500. Financial assistance is available.
Register: Before you register, you’ll need to attend a parent visit. Then, you’ll register online using their form application. You’ll also need to send any assessments or reports to summer@sandhillschool.org. Once the application has been reviewed, Julia Rodriguez (Admissions Coordinator and Office Manager) will reach out to schedule a 15-minute Meet & Greet call. Applications are due by May 13, 2024.
1:1 aide: Contact Sand Hill School to determine if your child’s 1:1 aide will be allowed.
Website
1622 San Carlos Avenue, Suite B
San Carlos, CA 94070
(650) 206-9468
info@skilledtherapyplay.com
Format: In-person
Led by play-based pediatric occupational therapists, this day camp features sensory motor activities designed to help kids build social, gross motor, and self-regulation skills. Each week has a new theme to help kids have fun while they learn and gain confidence.
Disabilities served: Neurodivergent children
Location: Up Academy in San Mateo
Dates and times: Four week-long sessions June 17–July 19, 2024, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Age range: 4-8 years old
Cost: $1,350 per week
Register: Fill out the form near the bottom of the camp information page. Once your completed form has been reviewed, you’ll be contacted with a decision and next steps.
1:1 aide: There is a spot on the form to indicate whether or not your child needs 1:1 support. Please contact STPS to discuss your child’s needs.
Website
1438 38th Ave
San Francisco, CA 94122
(415) 463-5472
summerbuddies@svschoolhouse.com
Format: In-person
Sequoia Village Schoolhouse is a neurodivergent-affirming independent school that aims to create a supportive learning environment for all students. During their social language camp, skilled therapists and educators will help kids build language skills, make friends, and grow their confidence. They only take six campers per age group, so children will have a more personalized experience.
Location: Sequoia Village Schoolhouse
Dates and times: Please contact the team for daily schedules and times.
Age range: 4–12 years old
Cost: $3,150. This price increases to $3,350 on June 1, 2024.
Register: Complete the application form and email it to summerbuddies@svschoolhouse.com. There is a non-refundable $25 application fee to reserve your spot.
1:1 aide: Contact the school directly to see if your child can bring an aide to their camp.
Website
3550 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite #200
San Jose, CA 95117
(408) 244-2005
clinicinfo@socialthinkingsc.com
Format: In-person
Social Thinking is a speech-language therapy clinic that aims to treat the individual rather than focusing on their diagnosis. During their summer camps, their experienced staff members teach children executive functioning skills, self-regulation, and social problem-solving. At the end of camp, parents meet with therapists to learn more about strategies they implement at home to better support their kids.
Location: Social Thinking Stevens Creek
Dates and times:
Age range: 4-18 years old
Cost: Early Learner Social Group is $160 per session, and School Age Social Group is $300 per session.
Register: Register online for the program of your choice. Applications must be submitted by May 17, 2024.
1:1 aide: Please contact Social Thinking directly to discuss your child’s needs.
