Buddies Intensive Camper Program
For adolescents with special needs, ages 12-15
$680/week
Important Notice! In an effort to keep the integrity and effectiveness of our special programs such as Special Needs Campers (40), Buddies Intensive (8), Junior Camp Counselors (12), and Yak Apprentice (12) there will be a cap for participants each week, noted in parentheses. Once the cap is reached, a wait list will be generated. Please don’t wait to register because these programs fill up fast!
Registration Opens April 17th at Noon
Buddies Intensive Camper Program
For adolescents with special needs, ages 12-15
$680/week
Important Notice! In an effort to keep the integrity and effectiveness of our special programs such as Special Needs Campers (40), Buddies Intensive (8), Junior Camp Counselors (12), and Yak Apprentice (12) there will be a cap for participants each week, noted in parentheses. Once the cap is reached, a wait list will be generated. Please don’t wait to register because these programs fill up fast!
Registration Opens April 17th at Noon
I'm SuperYak and I am the camp mascot. I solve problems with my thinking brain and calm body. I am excited for EVERYONE to learn and play together this summer!
"My son has learned a lot about patience and empathy and what friendship means by participating in Camp Yakety Yak. He does not have special needs, but learned as much as his brother with autism and is now a "friendship ambassador" at school. Thank you!"
- Parent of siblings, one neurotypical, via online survey
Neurotypical Sibling/Friend Role Model Tuition
General Camp Tuition only $150* a Week!
* In the past we accepted "Neurotypical Camper Registrations" for children that were not siblings or friends of a special needs camper. Due to our high enrollment numbers over the past three years, we must limit this program to siblings, or friends, of a special needs camper. You will be asked to enter the sibling or friend's name on the registration application and your NT registration will be processed after the Special Needs/Buddies/Explorer/Yak Apprentice camper's registration is processed.
Learn More About the Neurotypical Camper Program
Characteristics of Neurotypical Campers
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No disability suspected
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Can be a group leader or role model for other children
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At or above grade level across most subjects and skills, little assistance needed
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Expresses their thoughts, wants/needs and feelings as well as peers
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Can problem solve situations through talking it out calmly, negotiate
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Gets along with most people
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Does not have social anxiety, but can be shy at first in new settings
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No safety or behavioral concerns, doesn’t get in trouble at school or in neighborhood
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Can appropriately respond to stressful situations most of the time as well as others their age
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Comfortable in crowds at places like Chuck E. Cheese, movie theaters and shopping malls
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Can follow directions, handles authority, wait their turn, share, lose a game gracefully
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Has lasting friendships with peers
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Successfully participates in extracurricular activities, such as sports teams, like peers (without special accommodations)
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Independent participation in classroom, recess, childcare
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Has successful playdates often, only typical amount of adult supervision required
Camp Yakety is a Family Affair!
All ability levels can
participate together.
What Perks do Neurotypical Campers Receive?
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Enjoy weekly themed activities in recess stations, science, building, indoor and outdoor games, camp songs, daily talent shows, etc. that are geared to engage neurotypical children.
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Team leadership, role model opportunities
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Positive adult/teen attention for strengths and abilities
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*No individualized support from a master-level professional is provided/needed; participates independently as a member of a team with other kids their age.
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Camp Yakety Yak T-Shirt
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Commemorative camp photos and links to view camp photos, end-of-camp slideshow
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All Camp curriculum, visual Supports and items created for and by the Camper
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All specialty materials and supplies to complete camp projects
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Child Care Connections list specially trained respite and child care providers
What if my neurotypical child also has social or behavioral challenges?
Neurotypical children participate at camp for the fun activities, opportunities to connect with other children and leadership potential. Professional Faculty support is reserved for children with special needs. Sometimes masters-level support is needed for a neurotypical sibling. It may be that the sibling with special needs has much more apparent challenges, so that can make the other children in the family appear to be more "typical".
If campers who are registered as "neurotypical" end up needing specialized support from the Professional Faculty, Camp Directors will contact parents to discuss changing the registration and tuition level to a “Special Needs Camper.” Parents can also elect to withdraw their child at that time, but we would love to help all children with lagging skills!
Thank you for your understanding of this policy!
