Website
639 Frederick Street
San Francisco, CA 94117
(415)665-2276
info@acrosports.org
At Acrosports, students are encouraged to “crawl, swing, jump, bounce, and roll through a variety of apparatus as they learn to move gracefully and discover their own bodies.” In addition to their summer camps, Acrosports offers an open gym for the neurodivergent community on the third Saturday of each month from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. They welcome kids of all abilities to participate in their summer camps. Inquire directly to see if the camp is a good fit for your camper.
Format: In-person day camp
Ages: 4.5 years and up.
Disabilities served: Their summer camp is not specifically designed for campers with disabilities, but Acrosports has had several successfully participate in the summer camp programs throughout the years. This is an inclusive space.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome. Contact the camp to let them know you will be sending an aide with your camper.
Website
2479 E. Bayshore Road, Ste 170
Palo Alto, CA 94303
info@e-sports.org
Exceptional Sports is an inclusive sports program to help individuals develop athletic skills and teamwork.
Format: In person
Cost: Free
Ages: 3–17
Disabilities served: All
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
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 both individual and team sports, including athletics (track and field), basketball, bocce, bowling, flag football, floor hockey, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, and volleyball.
Format: In-person
Cost: Free
Age range: 8 years old and up
Disabilities served: Intellectual disabilities
1:1 aide: Please email to discuss your child’s level of support needs to see if this program would be a good fit.
Website
Berkeley Methodist United Church
1710 Carleton St.
Berkeley, CA 94703
(510) 936-1841
neelam@blissbellykitchen.com
Belly Bliss Kitchen is a farm-to-table kitchen that combines yoga and meditation. They offer week-long summer camps where campers experience yoga, cooking fundamentals, and kitchen knife skills. Their camps have a 1:12 staff-to-camper ratio. They accept 36 to 48 campers weekly and place them in smaller groups of 12. The Bliss Belly Kitchen staff is composed of culinary school graduates, credentialed school teachers, youth yoga and mindfulness instructors, and former chefs. All of their staff members have received background checks and are Food Safe and CPR certified.
Format: In-person day camp
Age range: 5–12 years
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Contact them prior to signing up to discuss support needs.
Website
4000 Middlefield Rd. #D5
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 729-9882
info@brainvyne.com
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, robotics, animations, money management, and more. Children are grouped by age and will learn the fundamentals of simple machines through play.
Format: In-person
Age range: Simple Machines ages 4-5; other camps are for ages 6-12.
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Please call to discuss your child’s level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
Fifteen locations throughout California
(408)459-0657
support@integem.com
Camp Integem offers educational programs in augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, coding, drones, art, animation, 3D design, game design, space tech, and more. This is a “hands-on adventure in innovation and creativity. No prior knowledge is needed. Students will learn at their own pace and use their imagination to step into a world of endless possibilities at Camp Integem.” For more information, read through the FAQ for their camps.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5.5–18 years old
Disabilities served: Autism and other intellectual disabilities.
1:1 aide: Aides are welcome but must be at least 18 years old, be a licensed healthcare professional or caregiver in California, be a non-family member of the student, pass a California DOJ criminal background check via Live Scan (paid for by the student’s family), and provide valid professional credentials.
Website
Multiple locations throughout California
(855) 446-4652
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.
Format: In-person
Cost: Camps range in price based on location.
Age range: 5–14 years old
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Contact your selected Code Ninjas center to discuss the needs of your child and the possibility of accommodating aides.
Cresconova Global provides online learning for intellectually curious learners. The classes offer a multidisciplinary approach to learning that is a fun, hands-on experience. Classes have a maximum of eight students with one teacher to allow individualized attention. Because the classes are online, students engage and collaborate with other peers worldwide. Their summer program, Summer Sparks 2025, offers a variety of courses for lower and upper elementary aged students that focus on mathematical skills and science fundamentals.
Format: Online
Cost: Varies depending on course chosen.
Age range: 6–11 years
Disabilities served: 2E, gifted
Two locations:
851 Beach Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 735-5234
info@culinaryartistas.com
Veteran’s Memorial Building
401 Highland Ave.
Piedmont, CA 94611
At Culinary Artistas, their mission is to inspire children to have a positive relationship with food by empowering children to cook intuitively. They offer week-long or single-day camps for children during school breaks. For summer 2025, they are offering three different week-long camps at their San Francisco location: Palette to Plate: Colorful California Cooking; Culinary Caravan: The Art of World Cuisine; and Baking Bliss: From Whisk to Wonder. The Piedmont Summer 2025 programming has not been listed yet.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4–10 years
Disabilities served: Call for details.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome.
Website
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 342-7755
info@curiodyssey.org
Contact: Alexis Bullock, Equity and Engagement Program Manager
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. Information on camp themes can be found here. Specific information on the camp and an FAQ can be found on their website.
Format: In-person
Age range: Entering TK/Kinder through fourth grade
Disabilities served: Camp CuriOdyssey aims to be inclusive of campers of varied learning abilities.
1:1 aide: Camp CuriOdyssey welcomes aides provided by the camper’s family. Families will need to indicate on their registration forms that an aide will be joining their child at camp, and they must sign a release. These arrangements take time to set up, so they require that parents/guardians contact the camp as soon as possible to ensure everything is in place prior to the camp start date. Contact Alexis Bullock, Equity and Engagement Program Manager, 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
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. 2025’s camp themes are Coaster and Carnival Mystery, Galactic Space Academy, and Wild Robot Science Quest.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5–11 years old
Disabilities served: If you’re unsure whether the camp is the best fit for your child’s specific needs, contact them directly to discuss.
1:1 aide: Destination Science allows campers to attend with a 1:1 aide. Please read their Policy and Procedure Form for Aides for additional information.
Website
1021 3rd St.
Oakland, CA 94607
(800) 854-3684
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 campers.
Age range: Pre-K to eighth grade.
Disabilities served: Not specified. 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.”
1:1 aide: Aides are generally accepted, subject to approval by Galileo Camps. Camps have a 12:1 camper-to-staff ratio.
Website
P.O. Box 111720
Campbell, CA 95011
(888) 709-8324
hello@iDTech.com
iDTech offers an immersive environment on college campuses for kids seeking to learn computer programming languages and game design. Classes include week-long programs on 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.
Format: In-person, online, and sleepaway
Age range: 7–17, depending on the course.
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
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
(510) 296-5519
info@inspirebehavior.com
Contact: Kelly Knowles, Founder/President
Inspire Call of the Wild Camp is an outdoor nature camp where kids can explore, hike, play, and learn in the forest. Day camp includes biology and language arts enrichment, kindness for campers and animals, hikes, and play time. The child-to-staff ratio is kept low at 4:1 or 5:1 at most sessions. Each week has a special theme, such as Enchanted Forest Art, Enchanted Vegan Nature, Enchanted Forest Reading, and Enchanted Forest Writing; in summer 2025, they will introduce a new theme week called Trailblazers for those who love hiking. The camp breaks the kids in groups based on grades for the majority of the day, but then activities such as free play, snack, and lunch are held together.
Format: In-person
Age range: K-5th grade (5–10 years old)
Disabilities served: They welcome “children in general education and special education programs.”
1:1 aide: Depending on space availability and advance notice, participants can have a 1:1 aide attend with them if the support is needed. Families can email Kelly Knowles directly to discuss the needs of their camper. Their camps are not specifically designed for kids with disabilities but are open to all children who meet camp prerequisites.
Website
1027 Terra Nova Boulevard
Pacifica, CA 94044
(650) 898-8742, ext. 2
Contact: Simone Riley, Programs Director
Junior Chef Stars offers kids and family classes year-round in the Bay Area. Their camps are three hours in length, and they make two to three full menu items per day depending on what they are signed up for. To find a current class in your area, please call Simone Riley, Programs Director, at (650) 898-8742, extension 2. She connects Junior Chef Stars with neighboring recreation centers and schools to line up classes for youth. Camps offered during this summer include baking camps such as The Art of European Baking, Simply Sweets, Cupcake Masters, Let Them Eat Cake, and Bakers Boot Camp. They also have camps that incorporate the cooking of savory and sweet dishes such as What’s for Brunch, Culinary Passport, Gourmet Garden, Wok and Roll, Junior Master Chef, and Advanced Culinary Arts.
Format: In-person
Cost: Varies depending on camp chosen.
Age range: Advanced Culinary Arts 7-17 years; all others 7-13 years
Disabilities served: Call for details.
1:1 aide: Contact the camp directly. If there is space at the camp location for the 1:1 aide to attend, most locations can accommodate this request.
Website
4546 El Camino Real Ste B9
Los Altos, CA 94022
info@kidzzinc.com
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.
Type of camp: In-person
Age range: 6–11 years old
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
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
1330 Orleans Drive
Sunnyvale, CA 94089
Contact: Kelly Yamanishi, Co-Executive Director
(408) 981-5712
Maker Nexus is a nonprofit organization that provides a community maker space where individuals use art and science to create something new. Part of their mission is accessibility and equity of access to tools and equipment to all.
Format: In-person
Age range: 9–17 years depending on camp chosen.
Disabilities served: This camp is not specifically designed for children with disabilities, but they have had children with developmental disabilities and learning disabilities attend their programs successfully.
1:1 aide: 1:1 are allowed on a case-by-case basis depending if the camp can accommodate the additional person in the camp space safely. Given the nature of the commercial tools and equipment they use at Maker Nexus, there are sometimes physical and neurological requirements to use their gear safely. At times, they are somewhat limited in the accommodations they can make.
Website
500 Discovery Parkway
Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 364-2760
camp@sfbaymsi.org
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. For more information, look over the Summer Camp FAQ.
Format: In-person
Age range: Grades K-8.
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Email the camp to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
1291 E. Hillsdale Blvd., Suite 201
Foster City, CA 94404
(650) 638-0500
campinfo@techknowhowkids.com
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).
Type of camp: In-person
Age range: Each camp is designed for a specific age group 5–13 years old.
Disabilities served: Contact for more information.
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 Fremont participants, please fill out the online form indicating the additional support needs of your child.
Website
682 Schofield Rd.
San Francisco, CA 94129
(415) 766-7647
info@tinkeringschool.com
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. 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 (age 6-8), Robotics (age 9-13), Art (age 8-13), and LARP (no specific age range).
Format: In-person
Age range: 6–16 years old
Disabilities served: Contact for more information.
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
Campers will learn about animals, habitats, biodiversity hotspots, and conservation efforts while exploring the different regions of the earth. Zoo Camp has interactive lessons and activities that are age appropriate and designed for multiple learning styles. The zoo also offers a Leadership Fellowship and Conservation Corps Program 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.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4–17 years old
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
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.
3835 Mission St.
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 876-FROG (3764)
info@treefrogtreks.com
Tree Frog Treks summer camp has been around for 26 years! Campers spend every day hiking with their expert team of naturalists; exploring science, nature, art, and music; and making new friends. The program includes wild science experiments and live animal encounters with their collection of rescued reptiles, amphibians, and more. Each week has a different theme. View all themes for the camps for incoming kindergarten to 5th grade here. For those entering 6th to 9th grades, they offer the Green Teen Machine Camp. The teen campers will encounter explorations of coastal ecosystems such as rocky shore tide pools, watersheds, exposed and sheltered beaches, bays, and estuaries. Campers will be introduced to local natural history, land stewardship, wildlife, oceanography (such as tides and currents), and basic water safety. They will also have VIP access to Frog Hall (headquarters of Tree Frog Treks), where they can forge real connections with the many rescue animal ambassadors they house. Endless Summer camp will be the final two weeks in August. During these sessions, campers will check in with the animal ambassadors almost every day, and travel by MUNI or on foot to explore San Francisco outdoor spaces. To find out more about all the camps above, check out their frequently asked questions page. To find out about being a counselor in training (CIT), please visit this page.
Format: In-person
Age range: Pre-K to 9th grade
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome. Please contact the camp directly to discuss the support needs of your child.
Website
111 N Wiget Ln.
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
(925) 295-1490
Contact: Kyra Dixon, Program Coordinator (specializes in the Adaptive Summer Camp program but can assist with all inquiries)
Walnut Creek Arts and Rec offers camps during school breaks. Specialized adaptive summer camps are also available. Specialized Recreation Day Camp includes an emphasis on social interaction, recreational, educational activities, and community involvement. Activities include crafts, games, nature study, music, sports, drama, and swimming. For teens and young adults, the program includes independent living skills like cooking, shopping, and environmental education along with social skills. The ratio of campers to counselors is smaller (3:1, 4:1 or 5:1 ratios depending on program/need), and the counselors are trained in positive behavior support, strength-based approaches, and adapted activity facilitation to create fun, safe, and age-appropriate activities for campers. Aides attending camps must fill out the online paperwork.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5 years and up
Disabilities served: Developmental and physical disabilities
1:1 aide: All camps are fully inclusive, but it is recommended that the participant be able to participate in 75% of the program on their own if it is not the adaptive camp. Campers needing additional support are allowed to bring in a 1:1 aide or family member if additional support is needed. Aides must be provided by families if the camper needs assistance toileting, eating, changing clothes, or safety concerns. The 1:1 aide will need to complete the requirements found here.
Website
Mailing address:
71 E. Carmel Valley Rd.
Carmel Valley, CA 93924
(833) 974-8366
contact@aiwcamp.com
Adventures in Writing Camp offers two-week, in-person camps throughout the Bay Area and Southern California. They group campers in three different courses: 1st grade, Elementary, and Middle School. 1st grade camp is capped at 15 students per class for more individualized attention. Elementary and Middle School are capped at 25, but class size depends on overall enrollment for that week. All camps deliver the lessons in song form and chants. 1st grade curriculum includes learning story concepts. Elementary (2nd-5th grades) includes three different classes in music/dance, writing, and ebook. The goal of this group is to complete an ebook that will be published on their website by the end of the camp. Middle School (6th-8th grade) is technology focused. Campers write a short story, then choose a short scene from that to write a script and draw pictures. The campers then take these pictures and read their script doing voiceover work, resulting in an animatic by the end of camp. All of the camps have brain breaks tied into the day every 20 minutes. Instructors keep the environment fun and active as they teach so that kids can fall in love with writing. All locations statewide teach the same curriculum.
Type of camp: In-person
Age: Students entering 1st to 8th grades in fall 2025
Disabilities served: While this is not a camp specifically designed for children with disabilities, they do have children with low support needs attend. They ask in their registration process if your child has a 504 or IEP at school to determine what support may be needed to achieve a successful camp experience. This may be in the form of incorporating additional movement breaks or being mindful of sensory needs when they host their daily assemblies with the entire camp meeting together. They will reach out to the caregivers prior to camp to get specific information on the supports needed. Their camps are led by credentialed teachers, and the camp directors are also credentialed.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome to attend with the camper. If a child has a 1:1 aide at school, please provide one for the camp.
Website
1405 Solana Dr.
Belmont, CA 94002
(650) 592-7570
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.
Format: In-person
Age range: Summer Program 2nd to 7th grade; Sports Camp 3rd grade to 7th grade, Musical Theater Camps 4th to 7th grade.
Disabilities served: Dyslexia and related learning differences
1:1 aide: This is on a case-by-case basis. Contact the camp directly to discuss your child’s specific needs.
Website
1829 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Suite D
Walnut Creek, CA
New address in June 2025:
1200 Boulevard Way.
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
(646) 345-4077
creativeartandclay@gmail.com
Creative Art and Clay is “a place where inspiration and creativity take place for kids and adults.” They hold camps throughout school breaks and regular weekly classes year-round. The owner is very supportive of an inclusive environment in the classes and camps offered. Courses in art for kids include Undersea Adventure, Animal Adventure, Princesses and Knights, Fiber Art Fun, Rainforest Art Adventure, and Messy Art Morning.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5 years and up
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Children are welcome to have an adult or 1:1 aide assist them if needed. Please let the camp know ahead of time so that any paperwork that needs to be filed can be completed prior to the start of camp.
Website
14110 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(408) 356-6456
info@danceattack.com
120 Carroll St.
Sunnyvale, CA 94068
(408) 245-5432
Dance Attack offers year-round dance programs for students of all ages including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, and Acro. Their tiny dance camp summer camps are for children ages 3.5–8 and are themed on fun topics like Barbie, Super Mario, Disney, and Space. They also are having a musical theater dance camp for campers ages 9 years and older. 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. 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.
Format: In-person
Age range: 3.5–8 years
Disabilities served: Students of all skill levels and those with disabilities, including teens and adults with developmental disabilities and individuals who use wheelchairs.
1:1 aide: Aides and parents are welcome to attend.
Website
Impact Dance Center
4923 Lincoln Ave.
Cypress, CA 90630
(949) 478-3224
Down for Dance (DFD) is offering a six-week summer camp both online and in person. A description of the courses offered can be found here. DFD connects the Down syndrome community and all abilities through movement and art, including yoga classes as well as dance. A video of a recent performance can be found here.
Format: In-person and online
1:1 aides: They are very open to having an aide offer in-class support. They want to make sure the aide and instructor have a moment to connect prior to their first class so that everyone can be on the same page from the start.
Website
P.O. Box 149
Graton, CA 95444
(707) 569-4859
christophermelville@fanwar.com
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.
Format: In-person
Age range: 9 and older. Exceptions can be made for 8-year-olds who already have siblings attending the camp.
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Contact Fanwar directly to see if they can accommodate an aide for your child.
Website
2533 R Street Suite 120
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 568-1424
Contact: Hester Wagner, Senior Director of Media and Art
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 "Joey Travolta, Futures Explored Film Camp Comes to Livermore" published in The Independent.
Ages: 10–22 years
Disabilities served: Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome. Please let Hester Wagner know by email when registering.
Website
3840 MacArthur Blvd.
Oakland, CA 94619
(510)531-4400
info@kidsndance.com
KidsNDance offers weekly camps over the summer in the areas of theater, dance, chess, arts, and aerial circus arts. At Aerial Circus Arts Camp, campers will explore the static trapeze, aerial hoop, aerial silk, plate balancing, juggling, clowning skits, and acrobatics. The theater camps are broken down into separate groups such as Little Theater, Youth Musical Theater, and Arts Theater Camp and More. At the end of the theater camp, campers will put on a live performance for their families of the play they studied (Moana 2, Jungle Book, Peter Pan, Mary Poppins, Little Mermaid, Wicked, or Mean Girls). Three-week Arts Camp campers will complete arts and crafts such as needle felting, stop motion claymation, recycled art, and DIY pinball machines. Chess Camp teaches fundamental skills of tactics, strategy, middle game planning, and endgame techniques. Campers will learn algebraic chess notations, be challenged with puzzles, and play games. For all camps, activities will include local field trips, outdoor time on their play structure, and time in the gym room experiencing circus arts.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4–14 years
Disabilities served: The camp is inclusive, but it is not designated for children with disabilities. Camp policies must be met by all campers.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome. Contact the camp to confirm appropriate support can be provided for your child to have a successful camp experience.
Website
1528 S. El Camino Real, Suite 208
San Mateo, CA 94402
(650) 393-5593
info@principalarts.com
Principal and Creative Performing Arts started as a small business in 2007 that taught dance, movement and motor skills to preschoolers (children under 5 years of age) within public schools . Back then, they were known as the Small Fry Dance Club. In 2014, they opened their doors in San Mateo and expanded their curriculum to a larger age group. They combine dancing and athleticism in their studio programs. All dance levels are welcome. Throughout the summer months, they offer four weekly themed sessions and welcome all levels of dancers within their studio.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5–14 years old
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Contact them directly to discuss the support needs of your child.
Website
14855 Oka Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(408) 357-7416
chaverim@jvalley.org
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.” 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 offers three camp options: traditional, focused, and specialty programs. In traditional, the campers have opportunities to participate in swimming, sports, arts and crafts, dance, music, and more. Focused is similar to the traditional camp, but the children have a different weekly theme that all the programming is tied into; no two weeks are the same. In specialty, the campers can focus on their favorite camp activity while having access to the other programming.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5-12 years old
Disabilities served: Intellectual and physical disabilities
1:1 aides: The inclusion program offers a 1:1 staff member who advocates and accompanies the camper to provide “individualized and tailored support.” Your child can also bring their own 1:1 aide.
Website
701 Laurel St.
Menlo Park, CA 94025
(650) 330-2205
registration@menlopark.gov
The City of Menlo Park offers a variety of weekly camps throughout the summer including Arts and Crafts, Performing Arts and Dance Camps, Special Interest Summer Camps (which are STEM-type programs), and Sports Camps. Check the activity guide for information on the variety of camp classes being offered.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4 and up. Age requirements vary depending on the program chosen.
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome to attend. Please contact them directly to complete paperwork needed for a 1:1 to accompany a camper.
Website
Camden Community Center
3369 Union Ave.
San Jose, CA 95124
(408) 559-8553
inclusionsupport@sanjoseca.gov
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. The staff-to-camper ratio is kept low at both camps (Playcamp 1:3 and Teens Together 1:4). They also offer other activities throughout the summer, such as surfing, arts and crafts, and cooking classes. Look over the All Access Summer Guide.
Format: In-person
Cost: Varies depending on camp chosen.
Age range: Playcamp is for 5–12 years old, and Teens Together is for 12–18 years old.
Disabilities served: Cognitive disabilities
1:1 aide: Campers can bring 1:1 aides to either camp, but those aides must pass a background check and provide proof of vaccination.
Website
3860 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 858-6990
info@bayareafc.org
office@bayareafc.org
Friendship Circle offers many services to kids with disabilities in the San Francisco area by pairing them with teen volunteers and teaching them social and leadership skills. During this day camp, children and teens with disabilities will have fun and build friendships with their teen buddies and peers while participating in a variety of themed activities including yoga, arts and crafts, sports, music, and much more.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5–19 years old
Disabilities served: Intellectual and developmental disabilities
1:1 aide: Although the camp doesn’t provide aides, each camper will be paired with a volunteer buddy. Discuss with the camp if there is an additional need for the family to provide a 1:1 aide.
Website
1099 E Street
Hayward, CA 94541
(510) 881-6700
Contact: Daniella Keiffer, Recreational Supervisor
The Hayward Area Recreation Center offers a range of youth classes for all ages and abilities. Camps are held throughout the district over the summer and focus on nature and appreciation for the outdoors.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5–12 years
Disabilities served: Please fill out this form. Once the form is submitted, you will receive a call from Daniella Keiffer, Recreational Supervisor to discuss the support needed for your child.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome to attend. The camp will require whomever you send to submit a background check.
Website
180 Camino Alto
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 383-1370
Contact: Molly Given, Recreation Supervisor of Community Services
Mill Valley Recreation has partnered with Project Awareness And Special Sports (PAASS) to provide an array of adaptive needs programming as well as support in local community-based sports leagues and recreational opportunities. If your child would like to attend a typical recreation program, please contact Molly Given, Recreation Supervisor of Community Services to discuss the adaptive supports needed. Mill Valley Recreation offers programming throughout the summer months including splash/day camps, art, theater, sports, wellness, counselor in training (CIT), and more.
Format: In-person
Cost: Varies depending on program
Age range: 5 years and up depending on program
Disabilities served: Children and young adults with developmental delays and learning differences
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome; depending on the programming chosen, the Mill Valley Adaptive Needs Program may be able to provide assistance to families.
Website
120 Vista Avenue
Piedmont, CA 94611
(510) 420-3040, ask for Recreation Department
Contact: Eva Phalen, Supervisor in Charge of Adaptive Programing
The City of Piedmont Recreation Department SideKicks Program is a series of adaptive classes, workshops, and summer camps specifically designed with neurodivergent kids in mind. They “select the most secure facilities, with the least amount of distractions and modifying the class pace; the environment discourages eloping and creates an enriching recreational experience that not only builds confidence but also creates connection with peers.” They maintain a low student-to-adult ratio of typically 2:1, with the maximum participants in classes capped at 12. The program is geared for elementary school-aged students. They welcome neurotypical siblings and friends to attend any of their adaptive classes and camps (individual registration is required for all participants). Programs take place at various locations throughout Piedmont. They offer after-school classes and camps year-round. Classes and camp offerings include sports, STEM, arts, and special interests.
Campers can be paired with a Teen SideKick if they have participated in a program throughout the school year at the Piedmont Recreation Center. The Teen SideKick assigned will meet with the family ahead of the summer camp sessions to build a relationship with the camper. The cost of enrolling a camper to be in the matching program ranges $50–$100 depending if the family puts their child in a full-day or half-day camp program. Contact Eva Phalen, Supervisor in Charge of Adaptive Programming, for more information on how to qualify for this assistance during their summer programming. The deadline for the SideKick matching is in March 2025.
Cost: Varies depending on program enrolled in
Age range: 5 years and up
Disabilities served: Intellectual and physical disabilities
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are allowed for all programming. Teen SideKicks help out year-round in all activities and can assist in giving support to participants who may need extra assistance. Contact Eva Phalen for more information.
Website
1215 O'Brien Dr.
Menlo Park, CA 94025
(650) 260-3805
info@openmindschool.org
Contact: Suzi Guerra, Clinical Director
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 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. The Menlo Park campus has a 13,000-square-foot Ninja Warrior gym, and they work to foster an inclusive atmosphere in their camps.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4-14 years old. 15 years and up can email Open Minds to inquire.
1:1 aide: The ratio of campers to counselors is 8:1 with 1:1 aides available as needed. Please email Suzi Guerra, Clinical Director to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit.
Website
100 Collingwood St.
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 831-6810
rpdtr@sfgov.org
San Francisco Recreation and Parks provides several summer day camps and other programs for children with disabilities with their adaptive recreation program. 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. Older teens and adults interested in community involvement can sign up for SLICE Summer Camp. All participants are welcome to bring comfort items. The parent handbook for summer camp can assist parents and caregivers who may have further questions. See also the FAQ about their adaptive camps.
Format: In-person
Age range:
Disabilities served: Autism and other developmental disabilities
1:1 aide: Families can fill out an accommodations request if they are interested in sending a 1:1 aide with their child to camp.
Website
330 West 20th Avenue
San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 522-7400
parksandrecreation@cityofsanmateo.org
Contact: Michele Venneri, (650) 522-7484
Contact: Zack Radcliffe, (650) 522-7474
The San Mateo Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of recreation activities and camps for all ages. Activities include games, arts and crafts, cooking, and sports.
Format: In-person
Cost: Varies depending on program chosen
Age range: 3–16 years depending on the program
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: 1:1 aides are welcome to attend. Any non-parent/guardian 1:1 aides will need to show proof of TB testing and fingerprinting.
Website
3232 Deer Hill Road
Lafayette, CA 94549
(925) 283-6311
Sienna Ranch offers children an opportunity to get hands-on experience with nature through multiple different camps. In Farm Hands, campers will learn how to care for Sienna Ranch animals such as the chickens, sheep, goats, duck and horses. In Makers by Nature, activities include learning how to use natural materials such as clay, oak galls, corn cobs, and wood and turn them into projects like lamps, figurines, darts, and spoons. Other activities include woodshop, gardening, cooking, and archery. Natural Adventures activities include cardboard sledding down grass hills, shooting a bow and arrow, hiking, woodshop, gardening, cooking, and archery. At Equine Adventure Camp, campers will receive a daily semi-private riding lesson as well as instruction on the fundamentals of horsemanship. In addition, campers will learn the basics of horse care/safety, anatomy, tack and equipment, behavior, and herd dynamics through crafts, games, and horse care activities. Survival in the Wild activities will include hiking, practicing lost proofing skills, and sharpening awareness of their surroundings. Campers will assemble a survival kit to bring home and will practice their navigation skills while hiking in the hills surrounding Sienna Ranch. Woodshop, gardening, cooking, and archery are included in the afternoon activities. Camps are limited to 8–10 children per group.
Format: In-person
Age range: Pre-K (minimum age of 4 years old at enrollment) through 6th grade.
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: Sienna Ranch asks that if your student has a 1:1 behavioral aide at school, they should attend together. Typically, the ranch does not allow parents/guardians as aides.
Website
(415) 302-7712
info@spectrumsurfcamps.org
Spectrum Surf Camp offers therapeutic one-week surf camps. The camp is limited to eight campers with a 1:1 and/or 2:1 camper-to-instructor ratio. The staff includes behavior specialists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, peer volunteers, and surf instructors who have experience working with both children and adults with extra support needs. They provide full body suits due to the temperature of the water being cold. Spectrum Surf Camps' are held at Bolinas and Stinson Beach, which are well-known beginner's spots that offer consistent wave height and speed during the summer months with gentle rollers and a sandy bottom. There is no guarantee that each camper will stand up on their board.
Format: In-person
Age range: Varies. Contact them directly to discuss if this is a good fit for your child.
Disabilities served: Including but not limited to autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and emotional disabilities.
1:1 aide: Not applicable. Campers have a 1:1 or 2:1 staff ratio.
Website
58 West Portal Ave. #800
San Francisco, CA 94127
(415) 604-0081
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.
Format: In-person
Age range: Pre-K through seventh grade
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.
UC Berkeley Recreation & Wellbeing offers a range of summer adventures and seasonal camps options for children. In-person Summer Camps have been offered here for over 60 years. The range of fun activities offered include Academic Talent Development Program, Blue Camp, Gold Camp, Gymnastics Camp, and Martial Arts Camp.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5–17 years. See the Summer Camps page to see specific ages for each camp offered.
Disabilities served: Contact for details. They state the following for families to consider: “Camp environments may include various factors, such as loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, and tactile sensations that can be overstimulating and may trigger sensory overload in some campers. Please use personal discretion when deciding to enroll your child in our programs.” They ask that families share if their child requires an aide at school when signing up for camp programs.
1:1 aide: To ensure that camps and programs are a good fit, please accurately fill out the behavioral and emotional support needs when you register in CampDoc. When they receive this information in advance, they do their best to contact the parent before each program begins to follow up on how to best support their child. There may be needs that are outside of the scope of their staff; if so, they will reach out with the next steps. If your child typically has an aide when they attend school, please share by emailing the Youth Programs Director, Kyle Chones.
Website
1017 Cedar Street
San Carlos, CA 94070
(650) 244-1519
Arbor Bay School in San Carlos, offers a K-8 grade school curriculum to help students with “mild to moderate learning differences” 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. Speech therapy and occupational therapy are available for individual or small group sessions for an additional fee.
Format: In-person
Age range: Kindergarten to eighth grade
Disabilities served: Learning disabilities and differences
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
Athena Academy offers 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.
Format: In-person
Age range: 1st–8th grade
Disabilities served: Dyslexia and twice-exceptional (2e) children
1:1 aide: Please contact them directly to discuss the details for your specific child’s needs.
Website
584 Castro St. #287
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 322-0874
admin@bearfootoccupationaltherapy.com
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 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. Each camp week has a maximum of six kids. There is at least a 1:3 ratio of adults to children. Camp focuses on supporting kids' social emotional skills through structured social emotional activities as well as supported free play. Camp is 100% outdoors. Games and activities are modified so that all children can participate.
Format: In-person
Age range: 3–9 years old depending on the session you choose.
Disabilities served: Neurodivergent children
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
13851 Stevens Canyon Rd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
(408)867-1115
At Camp Via West, campers can “try new things in a supportive environment. Every experience is a chance to grow intellectually, emotionally, and socially while building confidence and trust in themselves and others.” Activities for both day camp and sleepaway camp are similar with the exception of lodging. The activities include arts and crafts, outdoor education, sports, performing arts, music, swimming, and cooperative games.
Format: In-person; sleepaway and day camp options
Age range: 5–17 years
Disabilities served: Contact for details.
1:1 aide: There are options for 1:1 in their pricing schedule, so it is built into the camp structure.
Website
13851 Stevens Canyon Rd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
(408)867-1115
Altitude Camp provides opportunities for campers to build social skills, independence, and self-confidence. The activities include film, performing arts, sports, STEM, and other concentrations provided by community partners. Campers are placed into groups with peers of similar ages throughout the day. Day camp is the same as sleepaway camp with the exception of lodging.
Format: In-person; sleepaway and day camp options
Age range: 6th grade through post high school (up to 23 years)
Disabilities served: Neurodivergent youth who have social/cognitive support needs such as autism and ADHD.
1:1 aide: There are options for 1:1 aides in their pricing schedule, so it is built into the camp structure.
Website
350 Gate 5 Road
Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 339-8800
Campers will enjoy the outdoors by hiking in the redwoods of the Mill Valley area, spending time at Rodeo Beach, and running around and exploring the open spaces of Ring Mountain. New play skills are developed as a result of spending time in these natural settings. Sessions are led by at least one licensed therapist and supported by occupational therapy students or volunteers in groups of six campers with a 3:1 child-to-support ratio. Children are grouped by age and ability. Parents will receive a weekly email update about campers’ activities and therapeutic growth as well as daily photos.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4–18 years old
Disabilities served: Intellectual and physical disabilities
1:1 aide: Please contact them directly to discuss support needs. The camp can provide an aide for an additional fee, or families are welcome to have their own aide accompany their child. If it is determined the child requires additional support after the session has started, they will contact the family directly to discuss the options available.
Website
35 Larkin Valley Road
Watsonville, CA 95076
(408) 806-4603
info@growingsocial.org
Contact: Amy Miller, MA, CCC-SLP
This organization provides “small groups matched by age and skills” where children and teens are “taught a range of concepts related to social learning and executive functioning, and then given practice implementing these concepts and related skills through gardening, cooking, and other creative and motivating activities capitalizing on the student’s strengths and interests.” Camps are themed with different interests in mind. Previous camp themes include Dungeons and Dragons Camp, Live Action Role Play Camp, Build a Food Business Camp, Holiday Camp, Farm Fixer Upper Camp, Be a Farmer Camp, Farm Cafe Camp and Zombie Camp. They can offer individual therapy following camp sessions if needed. Camps are very specialized, so they are created often based on the overall needs of the youth applying this year.
Format: In-person
Programs:
Age range: 5 years and up
Disabilities served: Social communication disorder, autism, ADHD, social anxiety, and those without a formal diagnosis but who struggle to navigate the social world
1:1 aide: This accommodation can be made if needed, but it is rare. The groups for camp are small (typically four to six campers) depending on age, so 1:1 assistance is not always needed.
Website
880 Runnymede Road
Woodside, CA 94062
(650) 851-2271
htc@nceft.org
At Happy Trails Camp, campers will explore, engage with, and enjoy the world of horses and the great outdoors through hands-on horsemanship activities, games, arts and crafts, and more. If you have more questions, please read through their FAQ or email them.
Format: In-person
Age range: 6 years and up
Disabilities served: Intellectual and physical disabilities
1:1 aide: Staff will coordinate with parents and/or caregivers prior to camp to determine specific support for each camper. Camp staff and volunteers are not able to assist with toileting. Families may be required to provide a 1:1 aide if the camper requires assistance.
Website
3140 Balboa St.
San Francisco, CA 94121
(415) 971-8214
Contact: Vanessa Kahlon, Program Coordinator
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.
Format: In-person
Age range: 5 and up
Disabilities served: Twice-exceptional (2E) students
1:1 aide: Participants can bring a 1:1 aide. Reach out to Vanessa Kahlon, Program Coordinator directly.
Website
500 Tamal Plaza, Suite 505
Corte Madera, CA 94925
(415) 758-2768
Contact: Emily O'Brien, Clinic Coordinator & Administrator
Little Hands Occupational Therapy provides several summer camp options for preschoolers, kindergarteners, and elementary school students. At camp, children will build self-regulation skills, socialize with others, increase flexibility in play, and learn to better manage their anxiety. Using the Zones of Regulation curriculum in a multi-sensory environment, therapists will teach campers how to stay alert during school and at home.
Format: In-person
Age range: 3–10 years
Disabilities served: Anxiety, sensory processing disorder, social-communication challenges
1:1 aide: Reach out to Emily O'Brien, Clinic Coordinator & Administrator 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
Pomeroy is a community center that provides year-round programs for people with developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injuries. Through youth services, the organization aims 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.
Format: In-person day camp
Age range: K–12 grades
Disabilities served: Developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury
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
Contact: Alyson Cross, Office Manager at (925) 548-3797
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 meeting thirty hours per week in small groups.
Format: In-person
1:1 aide: The staff-camper ratio is 1:6. Contact Quest to determine if an additional 1:1 aide will need to be provided by the family.
Website
650 Clark Way
Palo Alto, CA 94304
(650) 688-3605
summer@sandhillschool.org
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.
Format: In-person
Age range: 8–11 years old
Disabilities served: Children with dyslexia, ADHD, language-based learning disabilities, school-based anxiety, or specific learning disabilities
1:1 aide: Contact Sand Hill School to discuss the support needs of your child.
Website
1622 San Carlos Avenue, Suite B
San Carlos, CA 94070
(650) 206-9468
info@skilledtherapyplay.com
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.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4-9 years old
Disabilities served: Contact for details. The summer camps have a heavy focus on sensory input, self-regulation, and social skills.
1:1 aide: There is a place on the registration form to indicate whether or not your child needs 1:1 aide support. Please contact STPS directly to discuss your child’s specific support needs.
Website
1438 38th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94122
(415) 463-5472
summerbuddies@svschoolhouse.com
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, twelve total per session, so children will have a more personalized experience. A typical day is similar to that of a school day with circle time, songs, recess, and crafts. They have two teachers and two aides per session for a 1:3 or 1:4 ratio of staff to children. They do like to meet the families ahead of time to ensure that the environment is a good fit for the camper.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4–8 years old
Disabilities served: Mild to moderate support needs focused on language delays.
1:1 aide: Contact the school directly regarding 1:1 aides. They are welcome but sometimes not needed due to the low teacher-to-camper ratio.
Website
3550 Stevens Creek Blvd. Suite #200
San Jose, CA 95117
(408) 244-2005
clinicinfo@socialthinkingsc.com
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 can implement at home to better support their kids.
Format: In-person
Age range: 4-18 years old
1:1 aide: Please contact Social Thinking directly to discuss your child’s needs.
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