While school is out for winter break, you can fill your kids' days with fun activities and the chance to make friends at these winter camps throughout California! Some of the programs on this list specialize in social skills, adaptive sports, STEM, therapeutic activities, and more, with options for day camps and virtual programs. Check out our full list below, put together by the Undivided Research Team! (If you're looking for camps and programs specific to your area, reach out to learn about getting a custom research report.)
There are fewer camps available than during summertime, so if you're interested in enrolling your child, be sure to reach out to the camp as soon as possible to see if it would be a good fit! If you're using Regional Center funding to pay for a camp, it's important to get your request in soon. Check out our tips here for funding camps and discussing your child's accessibility needs.
4000 Middlefield Road #D5
Palo Alto, CA
(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 including a Holiday LEGO Camp. The camp includes exciting activities involving LEGO gears, axles, battery packs, and robotics. Children are grouped by age and will learn the fundamentals of simple machines through play.
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.
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 342-7755
info@curiodyssey.org
For kids who are wild about animals, CuriOdyssey offers an engrossing program allowing campers 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.” Past 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.
Throughout the Bay Area
info@e-sports.org
E-sports is an inclusive virtual sports program for helping kids develop athletic skills and teamwork.
4546 El Camino Real Ste. B9
Los Altos, CA 94022
1338 El Camino Real
Belmont, CA 94002
(650) 384-0412
info@kidzzinc.com
Contact: Camille Thrall, Kidizens Lead Teacher
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 LEGOs.” The organization's mission is to “cultivate creative, critical, and civically responsible thinking that can be the foundational pillar of future learning in life.” They value accessibility and have experience with the neurodiverse community. They can accommodate as needed whether it is having fidget toys available during discussion meetings, or having visual aids instead of only giving verbal instructions/rules, to finding a way to make a child feel included and not singled-out when attending with a behavioral aide. Their play-based and project-based framework is welcoming to all abilities.
500 Discovery Parkway
Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 364-2760
camp@sfbaymsi.org
The November 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 a 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.
Ready Set Go Therapy: Friendship Explorations Thanksgiving Break Camp
350 Gate 5 Road
Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 339-8800
This outdoor camp allows kids to explore beautiful natural settings while participating in occupational therapy and building play skills. Parents will receive an email update about campers’ activities and therapeutic growth as well as daily photos.
Several locations in San Francisco, Peninsula, East Bay, and South Bay
(650) 638-0500
campinfo@techknowhowkids.com
Tech Know How holds camps on technology and computers, including Minecraft, Roblox, LEGOs, robotics, and game coding. The organization’s mission is to “provide children and teens with meaningful STEM education through projects they love.” Two winter camps being offered include Lego Pokemon Party ages 5-8 years and Minecraft & Lego Builders ages 6-10 years. Winter Camps will be held in Cupertino, San Mateo, and San Francisco. They are also working on adding a camp in Palo Alto.
3921 Fabian Way #A023
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 858-6990
info@bayareafc.org
During this day camp, children and teenagers with disabilities will participate in winter crafts, enjoy a bubble show, put on puppet shows, visit a petting zoo, and spend time socializing with their teenage volunteer “buddies” and their peers.
JCC Los Gatos: School Break Camps
14855 Oka Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(408) 357-7416
chaverim@jvalley.org
Camp Shalom is a unique Jewish day camp experience open to all kids from ages 18 months to 16 years old. Each session involves activities including swimming, sports, crafts, dance, and music. Camp Shalom states, “We are a true community, creating unity from diversity, making unforgettable memories.”
1215 O'Brien Dr.
Menlo Park, CA 94025
(650) 260-3805
info@openmindschool.org
Open Minds Silicon Valley is a “servant leadership organization that takes a comprehensive, community-wide approach to meeting the needs of the whole child.” Open Minds operates its own school and serves students from preschool through high school. They have many programs including after-school programs, a social innovation lab, a fitness gym, and seasonal camps. Open Mind’s Winter 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.”
58 W. Portal Ave. #800
San Francisco, CA 94127
Emeryville: (650) 264-7831
eastbay.break@steveandkate.com
Menlo Park: (408) 668-2227
menlopark@steveandkate.com
Palo Alto: (650) 265-4152
paloalto@steveandkate.com
San Jose: (408) 340-7858
southbay.break@steveandkate.com
San Mateo: (650) 539-0310
peninsulabay.break@steveandkate.com
Walnut Creek: (925) 215-4657
walnutcreek@steveandkate.com
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 and have a positive experience. They’re open to children bringing therapists or 1:1 aides to camp, so if that’s something you’re interested in, contact the camp first.
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.
Throughout the Bay Area
info@e-sports.org
E-sports is an inclusive virtual sports program to help kids develop athletic skills and teamwork.
Fresno Chaffee Zoo Winter Camp: Cozy Creatures Camp
894 West Belmont Avenue
Fresno, CA 93728
(559) 498-5910
Learn all about how animal behavior, diet, and appearance changes as the seasons do during this four-day camp. Campers will enjoy daily zoo tours, animal visits, crafts, and games.
Central California Adaptive Sports Center
40885 Shaver Forest Road
Shaver Lake, CA 93664
(559) 593-2504
info@centralcaladaptive.org
Central California Adaptive Sports Center aims to empower people with disabilities and support their well-being by providing accessible outdoor adventures. These adventures are designed with a variety of disabilities in mind, with activities and equipment adapted accordingly. CCASC offers programs in both summer and winter, providing individuals with a range of one-day or weekend dates to choose from. Since program activities vary based on “interest and suitability,” your selected program may include sit-skiing, stand-up skiing, stand-up snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and mountaineering. If you see a date that works for you, reach out via email or phone to get more details about activities, agenda, and fees.
Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra Daily Lessons
1 Minaret Rd.
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
(760) 934-0791
info@disabledsportseasternsierra.org
Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra is a nonprofit “providing adaptive sports and therapeutic outdoor recreation for people with disabilities.” Throughout the year, they offer seasonal programs, daily lessons, military sports, group and family programs, and camps during winter and summer. During the winter, DSES’s professional staff and volunteers teach alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding. They specialize in working with students of all ages and abilities using advanced adaptive techniques and equipment to help athletes achieve their goals. Their fleet of adaptive equipment includes mono skis, bi-skis, snow sliders, and more. Teaching techniques are tailored to the abilities and goals of each student emphasizing safety and fun. Passes, equipment, and lunch are provided.
Mary Ella Brown Ctr.
1350 E. Annadale
Fresno, CA 93706
(559) 488-1502
Fresno Parks and Recreation Winter Camp at Mary Ella Brown offers team-building games, winter-themed crafts, and cool science experiments.
Fresno Unified School District Winter Camp
2309 Tulare Street
Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 457-3000
Fresno Unified School District offers a wide variety of winter camps including adventure, creative arts, career discovery, sports and fitness, and STEM. The camps are located throughout Fresno County.
275 N. Minnewawa
Clovis, CA 93612
(559) 472-3941
High Performance Academy offers a variety of camp options including science, technology, sports, and the arts. Their goal is to provide a valuable and enjoyable experience for children while remaining accessible and affordable for parents.
Multiple locations
Contact: Katie Kincaid at (559) 248-8480 ext. 157
For over 20 years, the River Parkway Trust has been offering exciting, fun, and safe day camp experiences for children at River Camp. An experienced staff of counselors, mentors, and directors will engage your children in activities that enhance their understanding of, and connection to, the San Joaquin River. Campers will enjoy exploring wildlife habitats, playing games, creating arts and crafts, and building new friendships during their winter camp experience. These are offered through Fresno, Madera, and Central Unified School Districts plus Firebaugh. Groups are typically 12-14 campers led by a counselor and 1-2 Junior Leaders. Students are placed in groups with no more than two years apart from each other (e.g., the youngest group member is 6 and the oldest group member is 8).
405 Vernon St. #100
Roseville, CA 95678
(916) 783-4117
info@bluelinearts.org
Blue Line Arts is a community-oriented space and cultural hub for emerging artists that offers services, camps, and education for children and adults. Winter camp themes include Anime Character Design for 9-12 year olds and Clay Studio for 5-8 year olds.
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.
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.
1820 Tribute Road, Suite F
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 419-7644
Dream Enrichment Winter Camp includes activities in art and engineering. Check back on their website for details as they are currently developing the curriculum for it.
1:1 aides: Please email to discuss your child’s unique level of support needs to see if this camp would be a good fit for you.
Throughout the Bay Area
info@e-sports.org
E-sports is an inclusive virtual sports program to help kids develop athletic skills and teamwork.
Multiple locations at Alpine Meadows, Palisades Tahoe, and Northstar California
Main address:
2680 Alpine Meadows Rd. B3686
Alpine Meadows, CA 96146
(530) 581-4161
The Achieve Tahoe snowsports program provides “private adaptive ski and snowboard lessons for all abilities. Achieve Tahoe seeks to utilize each individual’s abilities to help them find the greatest amount of independence in recreation. They are a member school of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA). Our PSIA-certified instructors and trained volunteers make skiing or snowboarding possible for anyone with physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities.” They welcome first-timers to advanced skiers. They have specialized adaptive equipment available. Snowsports options for kids 4 years and older include two track, snowboarding, three track, four track and slider, blind low vision, bi-ski, and tetraski. For ages 12 years and older, monoski is available. There are weight limits for some of these options. Talk to the resort when making reservations.
Cost:
Deterding Park
1415 Rushden Drive.
Sacramento, CA 95864
(916) 487-7851
Arden Manor offers a space to make new friends, have adventures, play outdoor games, and make crafts while school is out of session. The camp does not provide any lunch or snacks, so please bring lunch and snacks to eat during the day. Check in with staff in the activity room, right in front of the small play structure, in the morning before everyone goes out to play.
El Camino Winter Wonderland Fun Camp
Cottage Center
3097 Cottage Way
Sacramento, CA 92825
Contact: Robin Romines (916)927-3802, ext 112
El Camino Winter Wonderland Fun Camp will add sparkle to your child's winter break with games, arts and crafts, contests, music, and more. All activities will be planned around a daily theme. Campers are expected to bring their lunch daily and two snacks.
9360 Elk Grove Florin Road, Ste. 4
Elk Grove, CA 95624
(916) 513-7015
elkgrovekidscamp@gmail.com
Elk Grove Kids Camp is an affordable option for families during school breaks. Book only the days you need. The program includes arts and crafts, STEM projects, supervised swim, and outdoor play. These activities include an educational aspect with word games, story time, puzzles; physical aspect with swimming, hiking and playing outside; play-based learning through board games, Legos, and arts; and social-emotional learning through group games and meal times. They foster emotional regulation throughout the day.
712 57th Street
Sacramento, CA 95819
(916) 451-4900
Fancy Feet is excited to host a Taylor Swift-themed “In My Dance Era” Winter Camp featuring crafts, games, dancing, and everything Taylor Swift.
Golden State Grind Baseball Winter Camp
Marathon Baseball Field
1745 Arnold Industrial Way
Concord, CA 94520
(925) 276-2207
goldenstategrind@gmail.com
The Golden State Grind Baseball camp will provide players with better fundamentals. Campers will complete baseball drills, situational games and some competitions. Groups are divided according to their appropriate age group or skill level in order to get the most out of the camp. The Grind Wiffle Ball World Series is the second half of the day for fine-tuning baseball skills in a fun way. Players should bring their own gear, water, snacks, and lunch to camp each day.
Mission Oaks Parks and Recreation
Arden Middle School
1640 Watt Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95864
(916) 972-0336
Contact: Chelsea Adams, Recreation Supervisor
Prepare for an electrifying adventure where two worlds collide at Winter Break Camp: Bikers vs. Surfers! This one-of-a-kind camp invites thrill-seekers to immerse themselves in the heart-pounding excitement of motorcycles and the laid-back cool of surfing, all in one action-packed week.
2401 Butano Dr.
Sacramento, CA 95825
(916) 829-8969
Campers will have full access to this jump park, which includes trampolines, dodgeball, basketball slam, extreme jump tower, ninja warrior course, themed climbing walls, five-level indoor playground, climbing structure, junior warrior course, and four-lane air pit. The typical daily schedule includes activity time on all their attractions with their camp counselor. They will break for lunch and socialization. In the afternoon, they will continue with organized camp games, additional activity time on all their attractions, and movie time with snacks.
8025 Waterman Road
Sacramento, CA 95829
(916)526-0234
Pat O'Brien Community Center offers an action-packed program filled with games, crafts, fitness, math, science, reading, history, and nutrition education. A morning and afternoon snack will be provided daily, but participants must bring their own lunches.
45895 California Hwy 49
Ahwahnee, CA 93601
(510) 222-6662
campkrem@gmail.com
Camping Unlimited provides recreational activities in a sleepaway camp setting for campers of all ages and abilities. Originally located in Boulder Creek, Camp Krem has relocated to Awahanee, CA. During the fall and winter, they offer weekend-long respite camps to give parents a chance to relax and let kids have some fun and independence away from home. For Thanksgiving, campers have the chance to participate in activities such as dancing and nature walks before sharing a holiday feast. During the Holiday camp, kids can decorate cookies and make seasonal crafts.
Registration: Registration for the respite camps can be done online.
YMCA of Silicon Valley Family Camp
(408) 351-6400
membersupport@ymcasv.org
campcampbellymcasv.org
Activities for the family include archery, climbing wall, crafts, camp games, river exploration, and wildlife viewing.
2028 W 11th Street
Upland, CA 91786
(909) 931-2764
adaptiveathlete@icloud.com
Please Note: As of November 2024, the camps page has not been updated for winter 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and registration information. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
The Adaptive Athlete’s services are focused on improving quality of life through “movement, inclusion, and socialization.” Their winter camp, along with their other seasonal camps, are designed to provide a “safe, friendly, and fun environment” for children of all abilities. Each week at camp is characterized by a unique theme and engaging activities such as arts, crafts, STEM, gymnastics, and more.
2358 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 896-8461
info@beyondkarate.org
Beyond Karate was established in 2009 in response to the need for “inclusive programs where all individuals feel valued and supported.” With empowerment, acceptance, inclusivity, and understanding at the center of its mission, Beyond Karate tailors its services to children with disabilities. The programs combine education and fun to foster friendships and life skills in an inclusive environment. Each camp focuses on “the city’s rich culture, natural beauty, and dynamic environment” in an effort to show campers new ways to view and experience Santa Monica.
2459 Motor Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(310) 202-2803
Please Note: As of November 2024, the camps page has not been fully updated for winter 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and registration information. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
PlayLA was created to showcase the positive impact that adaptive sports can have on young people with disabilities and to help remove barriers to access. Focusing on “enhancing lifelong leisure pursuits” and “equitable quality of life,” PlayLA provides clinics, sports leagues, and seasonal lessons for their community. Winter programming, which includes clinics and lessons, consists of archery, swim, para equestrian, sitting volleyball, and archery. As a part of LA Parks & Recreation, PlayLA’s winter camps and programs are offered at a variety of locations, giving families more flexibility in choosing activities for their children. For a full list of upcoming events, clinics, camps, and other programs, check out their calendar or use LA Parks & Recreation’s program search.
Multiple locations
(310) 998-0010
la@soccerstars.com
Soccer Stars provides a “safe, positive, and encouraging” space for players of all skill levels to play and learn “life skills taught through soccer” at their own pace. Soccer Stars has three locations in southern california to select from: Los Angeles, North Orange County, and South Orange County. They have single day, holiday, and summer camps with different schedule options for families to pick from: half day, full day, Soccer + Art, Soccer + STEM, and multi-sport. In alignment with their desire to provide a safe and empowering environment, Soccer Stars offers their Shining Stars program for “athletes with adaptive needs.” In this program, players receive the “personal attention and support” they need in an inclusive environment. This program also includes Shine Shadows aides, who work 1:1 with your child until they are ready to transition to independent support.
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 590-3100
The Aquarium of the Pacific has worked to create an inclusive culture through their various accommodations, events created for people with disabilities, advocacy, classes, camps, and more! They’ve teamed up with KultureCity to better accommodate those with sensory processing needs, and they host events like Autism Nights, All Abilities Night, and the Festival of Human Abilities. All abilities are welcome at their winter camp, where each day has a different theme with fun and educational activities. Camp activities are focused on learning about the adaptations of animals, the importance of unique and diverse habitats, ocean creatures, and “how we are all connected.” The Aquarium strives to make sure all campers can participate, and their educators are ready to provide modified lessons.
Exceptional Minds Winter Workshops
14144 Ventura Blvd. Suite 100
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
(818) 387-8811
info@exceptional-minds.org
Exceptional Minds is a nonprofit academy and studio founded to help prepare autistic young adults for careers in animation, visual effects, 3D gaming, and similar entertainment fields. Their programs provide education, post-graduation programs, and training. Additionally, Exceptional Minds offers seasonal workshops covering a wide variety of topics like character design, storyboarding, and working with Unreal Engine. Each season’s workshop is characterized by two sessions, with each running for five weeks. Throughout each week, there are in-person and virtual courses to choose from, making it easy to tailor the workshop to each student’s preferences and goals. If you’d like to get a sense of what their Winter Workshops will be like, check out their Fall Workshops page for a preview and course descriptions.
1:1 aide: Their Visit & Apply page states that they cannot accommodate students who require an aide.
1024 Hanley Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90049
(310) 472-7474
At Tumbleweed, campers can unplug and connect with themselves and their peers through play and exploration. Their 100-acre location hosts summer and winter camps, which are developed around Tumbleweed’s values: building connections, respect, kindness, acting with responsibility, community, growth, exploration, self-discovery, play, and being outdoors. During camp, children can explore the grounds and participate in numerous activities such as archery, arts and crafts, ropes courses, rock wall climbing, parachute games, drama, music, fort building, gardening, seasonal activities, and more! All abilities are welcome at Tumbleweed as they strive to maintain an inclusive community. Staff members take an individualized approach to supporting campers by collaborating with families and discussing each camper’s needs. This includes allowing campers to bring their own support person or 1:1 aide. If you’d like to learn more about Tumbleweed’s camp and if it’s a good fit for your child, please reach out to Liz Kimmelman.
P.O. Box 3367
Crestline, CA 92325
(909) 338-1102 ext. 5003
camppaivika@abilityfirst.org
Please Note: As of November 2024, the camp page has not been updated for winter 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and registration information. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
AbilityFirst’s Camp Paivika provides disabled children, teens, and adults with a traditional in-person camp experience in summer, and their supportive culture translates to their Camp Paivika @ Home program, a virtual camp held throughout the year. It is Paivika’s hope that through this virtual camp, they can “maximize opportunities for social development” and help campers increase their independence and confidence. Each day at camp is filled with a variety of activities like crafts, music, dancing, movie nights, special events, group chats, and more.
6371 Haven Ave., #3-178
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737
(877) 774-7978
info@chasing7dreams.org
E*KAAMP was developed to provide children with disabilities a “safe, interactive recreation program.” With its focus on fostering friendships and developing skills, E*KAAMP creates opportunities for typically developing and disabled children to socialize, make friends, and foster compassion. These opportunities are made possible by creating “an environment designed around their needs” and taking steps to reduce anxiety around attending a social-recreation program. Campers will be presented with therapeutic activities as well as fun ones, such as arts and crafts, field trips, STEM, movie days, music, and more. When working on skills, E*KAAMP focuses on helping campers develop their assertiveness, social skills, communication skills, and relationship building. Camps are hosted throughout the year. When they are at capacity, you can join the waitlist by emailing ekaamp@chasing7dreams.org.
1952 S. Robertson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
(310) 280-0955
Friendship Circle of Los Angeles was founded to connect Jewish youth of all abilities to their community so that “friendship, acceptance, and a chance to bond with peers” can be made possible. Through their various events and programs, FCLA remains focused on their mission to provide “a full range of social, recreational, educational, and Judaic experiences” as well as inspiring, enriching, and motivating teens to share their authentic selves. During their winter camp, participants can look forward to connecting with their community and engaging in fulfilling activities alongside their very own buddy.
12205 1/2 Ventura Blvd
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 358-3535
grow@play2progress.com
Please Note: As of November 2024, the winter camps page has not been updated for winter 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and registration information. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
Play 2 Progress is an occupational therapy clinic with a focus on play as “the foundation of development.” Their seasonal camps create opportunities for participants to have fun and learn through play, which includes activities such as gym time, messy play, sensory play, and problem-solving activities. Each week at camp is assigned its own theme that influences daily activities. Previous camps have seen themes like superheroes, spy kids, circus, Olympics, jungle, and art.
Playspace Pediatrics Winter Camp
11609 1/2 Washington Place
Los Angeles, CA 90066
(310) 906-0180
office@playspacepediatrics.com
At Playspace, therapists support each child’s development by motivating them to “explore, play, learn, and grow” their physical, social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive skills. In addition to occupational therapy, speech therapy, and group services, Playspace offers seasonal camps. Each camp is designed to promote skills development (gross motor, fine motor, socio-emotional) through play-based learning. Playspace also utilizes techniques like Social Thinking and Zones of Regulation to enhance learning. Siblings are welcome to attend, and children do not need to complete an initial evaluation or be receiving therapy services to participate in the camp.
3110 Pennsylvania Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 494-6889
info@bloompediatrics.com
Bloom’s motto “nature, nurture, bloom” is demonstrated through their use of occupational therapy principles to empower children and support their development. They offer individual sessions, sibling sessions, intensives, parent support, handwriting skills groups, social skills groups, pop-up camp days, and seasonal camps. During camp, children enjoy a structured environment complete with circle time, snack time, free play, and themed activities. Each day, campers explore and practice new fine motor, gross motor, social thinking, communication, executive functioning, and emotional regulation skills through music, obstacle courses, games, and other activities. These activities are infused with social integration principles, Social Thinking strategies, mindfulness, and more. Campers are put into groups based on “age, abilities, areas of strength, and areas of stretch” in order to achieve an “ideal ratio” that allows for individualized attention.
1:1 aide: Individualized attention is a focus of Bloom’s camp. Please contact Bloom Pediatrics to discuss additional support.
1808 Lincoln Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 581-8101
info@adriansplacesm.com
Adrian’s Place connects young adults with disabilities by offering them spaces to connect and share with their community. Through recreational, social, and academic programs, young adults can “meet, talk, share experiences, and offer advice” with peers who share similar interests or objectives. The Winter Enrichment Camp brings peers together to develop life, social, collaborative thinking, self-expression, peer interaction, and problem-solving skills. Each day is filled with activities that promote independent growth, such as cooking, music, sports, photography, arts, field trips, community outreach, and more. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot as soon as you can!
35 Shady Canyon Drive
Irvine, CA 92603
(949) 724-6814
champ@breakthroughsports.org
The City of Irvine’s disability and inclusion services provide individuals with disabilities opportunities to access specialized programs and help remove barriers to inclusion. Each season, the city creates a robust catalog of programming for disabled residents as well as inclusive options. This winter, one of their many sports and fitness options includes a basketball camp. This “inclusive, high energy” camp is designed to help players of all skills boost their confidence, learn fundamental basketball skills, and develop “basketball IQ.” Be sure to also check out their adaptive bowling, adaptive yoga, and more.
3901 Landis Street
San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 525-8247
KZ Program Manager: Haley Marshall
Please Note: As of November 2024, the catalog has not been published for winter 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and details. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
The City of San Diego’s Therapeutic Recreation Services offer a variety of programs and services designed to enrich the lives of individuals with “physical, mental, and emotional disabilities.” Among these services are sports classes, various recreation programs, leisure activities, and outreach services. Each class or program is carefully designed under “the direction of Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists” to ensure a positive impact on the individual’s physical, cognitive, and social functioning. Kid Zone, a program included in every seasonal catalog, is designed to foster social, cognitive, emotional, physical, communicative, and creation skills through play and recreation, such as at their adventure camps. For winter 2024, their adventure camp is broken up into two days with different excursions. On the first day, participants will take a trolley ride to the Living Coast Discovery Center, and the second day is reserved for a trip to the San Diego Zoo. For a glimpse into this winter adventure camp, check out their 2023 winter catalog.
9276 Scranton Road, 6th Floor
San Diego, CA 92121
(619) 512-9652
info@connectmed.org
Please Note: As of November 2024, the event page has not been updated for Holiday Camp Cosmos 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and registration information. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
At Camp Cosmos, programs that prioritize “positive, inclusive, and community building” for children with visible differences or disabilities take center stage. These services and programs are available to the San Diego community and beyond, with their virtual services reaching other states and even Mexico. Every year, they offer a Holiday Camp weekend, both virtually and in person, for children with disabilities and their families. The program is designed with the whole family in mind, helping children build their self-esteem and offering family members opportunities for making connections, bonding, empowering themselves, and sharing insights and experiences.
1875 El Prado
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 238-1233
This winter, the Fleet Science Center is offering a STEM winter camp that offers “diverse and enriching experiences.” Each activity is designed to foster “inquiry and play” while also encouraging children to be curious and investigate scientific concepts. Families have several days to select from, each with their own theme and targeted skill or subject, such as art and geometry.
1000 Gunpowder Point Dr.
Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 409-5900
info@thelivingcoast.org
Join The Living Coast Discovery Center this winter for a week full of “nature exploration, scientific inquiry, and wildlife connection.” During camp, participants will enjoy a variety of wildlife activities and environments with their peers in age-based groups. This includes exploring training, visiting exhibits, meeting and feeding animals, making recycled arts and crafts, doing hands-on science activities, and more!
SoCa Arts: K-Pop Dance Camp
4531 Bryan Ave.
Irvine, CA 92620
(949) 724-6728
info@socaarts.com
The City of Irvine’s disability and inclusion services provide individuals with disabilities opportunities to access not only specialized programs but also general classes and camps by removing barriers to inclusion. Each season, the city creates a catalog of programs for disabled residents and inclusive options. These seasonal catalogs are full of traditional camps and classes as well as unique offerings like adaptive yoga. This winter, one unique offering sure to excite young fans is their K-Pop Dance Camp. This beginner-friendly camp invites individuals of all skills to join in on learning K-pop choreography essentials. Campers will not only develop new dance skills but also grow their individual skill and expression in an environment focused on fostering these aspects. Be sure to explore the city’s catalog for more unique and inclusive offerings, like adaptive fitness and game nights.
39 Shady Canyon
Irvine, CA 92603
(949) 724-6814
paintpastepour.ca@gmail.com
This winter, a fantasy inspired holiday craft camp is being offered as one of several creative opportunities for the season from the city of Irvine. Prospective campers are invited to join in on creating holiday magic and get into the spirit through magical crafts and activities. Get to know the instructor via their instagram or email, and be sure to explore the city’s catalog for more winter fun.
4225 Executive Square, Suite 600
La Jolla, CA 92037
(619) 222-4465
Please Note: As of November 2024, some workshop details have not been announced. Please check back soon for more details. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
This workshop, made possible by the Autism Tree Foundation and National Charity League, provides creative-minded children with disabilities a space to explore and express themselves through a variety of activities. During this one-day workshop, participants will have the opportunity to engage in arts and crafts designed to be sensory friendly. It is the Autism Tree Foundation’s hope that this play-centered program helps campers grow their confidence and skills.
P.O. Box 3367
Crestline, CA 92325
(909) 338-1102 ext. 5003
camppaivika@abilityfirst.org
Please Note: As of November 2024, the camp page has not been updated for winter 2024. Please check back for 2024’s dates and details. In the meantime, you can review the information below to get an idea of the program!
AbilityFirst’s Camp Paivika provides disabled children, teens, and adults with a traditional camp experience. This supportive culture translates to their Camp Paivika @ Home program, a virtual camp held throughout the year. It is Paivika’s hope that through this virtual camp, they can “maximize opportunities for social development” and help campers increase their independence and confidence. Each day at camp is filled with a variety of activities like crafts, music, dancing, movie nights, special events, group chats, and more.
Friendship Circle OC Winter Camp
2240 University Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 721-9800
info@friendshipoc.org
Every year, the Friendship Circle serves the disabled individuals within their community through “support, friendship, and inclusion that they deserve.” This includes classes, workshops, recreational programs, support groups, social opportunities, and camps. This year, the Friendship Circle, in collaboration with the Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department, is offering a winter camp for children with physical and developmental disabilities. During camp, children will have a variety of activities, games, sports, and field trips to participate in alongside trained volunteers. Each of these opportunities is designed to help campers “grow and experience the joys of life.”
Tumble-n-Dots Winter Break Camp
16 Technology Drive, Suite #142
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 835-3746
hello@TumbleNDots.com
Tumble-N-Dots is a family-centered pediatric clinic in Irvine with services and programs designed specifically for neurodivergent kids. Each year, they offer a winter mini camp led by occupational therapists to “keep the developmental momentum going with therapeutic activities.” These play-based activities include elements designed to encourage sensory exploration and the development of fine motor skills, gross motor skills, self-regulation, and social skills.
Save your favorite resources and access a custom Roadmap.
Get Started
