Explorers
Ages 5–18 | $750/week
Explorers 1, ages 5-9
Explorers 2, ages 10-14
Explorers 3, ages 15-18
Program Overview
The Explorers Program is designed for youth with diverse learning, communication, and physical abilities who thrive with individualized one-to-one and one-to-two support. Participants engage in hands-on activities focused on personalized skill growth, guided by a Masters-level special education teacher and a speech-language pathologist, with support from graduate students, a camp nurse, occupational and physical therapists, and dedicated one-to-one or one-to-two assistance.
Explorers builds skills, confidence, and friendships, while giving youth the chance to explore, play, and have fun in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Every schedule is flexible and tailored to each youth’s needs, combining small-group and whole-program activities so each participant can engage at their own pace and thrive socially, emotionally, and physically.
Key Features for Parents
• Personalized skill growth: daily activities designed to highlight each youth’s strengths and support development in communication, social, and motor skills
• Dedicated one-to-one and one-to-two assistants to ensure safety, engagement, and individualized support
• Therapy-informed activities: PLAY class and movement adventures guided by
occupational and physical therapists
• Communication support: individualized guidance from speech-language professionals,
including AAC tools as needed
• Independence and life skills: support with feeding, toileting, or mobility to promote
confidence
• Fun, hands-on learning: arts, crafts, science experiments, and games inspired by
weekly program themes
• Parent updates: daily feedback and, upon request, a written camper participation
report at the end of camp.
Program Philosophy
At Camp Yakety Yak, the Explorers Program celebrates each youth’s abilities and potential. Our team works closely with our one-to-one and one-to-two assistants and therapists to create individualized schedules that balance skill-building, social interaction, and fun. Participants grow confidence, independence, social skills, and joy, all while participating in a supportive and inclusive community.