Social & Recreational Opportunities

Autism Delaware has developed a series of activities that can be done in the home or in the Delaware community. Each activity includes a parent/caregiver worksheet, video explanation of the project or activity and visual supports. Join other families across Delaware in some fun science, cooking, crafts and scavenger hunts specifically designed to support the needs of individuals with autism and their families!

Purpose of the Camp

The Autism Delaware Summer Beach Camp is designed to provide a traditional summer day camp experience with necessary supports from staff who understand the special needs of youth with ASD. The Camp is held at Children’s Beach House in Lewes Delaware for 4 days in August. Our goal is to help each child have a fun and successful summer camp experience building new peer relationships, exploring new activities, and making gains in independence. Camp also provides the opportunity for respite for families.

The camp program is highly structured and filled with new adventures within a repeating schedule. Activities include kayaking, sailing, swimming at the beach, low ropes course, arts and crafts, swimming in the pool, and more! Throughout each activity, emphasis is put on communication, social skills, and building self-esteem. We use a “Challenge by Choice” approach throughout camp activities, meaning that we encourage campers to try new things, but never force them into an activity. Emotional and physical safety are always our priority.

Program staff will include teachers, paraprofessionals and therapists with autism training and experience, Autism Delaware staff, and Children’s Beach House Camp Counselors, allowing for a low staff to camper ratio.

Purpose of Junior Golf

The game of golf can be enjoyed across the lifespan, helping youth increase confidence, perseverance and improve judgment as they learn techniques of the game. Instruction will include: putting, chipping, driving, short game, course etiquette and more.

The program will again be free, thanks to the generosity of Coach Butch Holtzclaw and The Rookery in Milford, Delaware. Equipment for this program will be provided by The Rookery, purchased through a previous grant provided by The Philadelphia Foundation and The Greater Philadelphia PGA. Junior Golf is offered in the fall of each year.