Q. We need some suggestions for summer camps for our adopted daughter. She’s really social, likes sports and doing crafts. The last two summers were hard, mostly because she is chatty and does not follow directions immediately (she has ADHD). Any programs that can work for her?

A. Finding the right summer program can be tricky, especially for our children and teens who are neurodiverse. Thank you for searching for camp that allow children to build friendships, develop new skills, and enjoy preferred activities.

Fortunately, Northern Virginia offers many adapted and therapeutic recreation programs to support youth with disabilities in engaging, safe, and inclusive environments.

Prince William Co. Adapted Recreation Programs are available for youth ages 2-18+. The PWCS Parent Resource Center has also compiled a detailed list of both general and specialty summer camps — including equestrian, swimming, and dance — thoughtfully organized by area of need.

Fairfax County Therapeutic Recreation Services Summer Camps welcome residents ages 5-22 from Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and Falls Church. These inclusive camps serve children and young adults with many types of disabilities. Sites offer varying staff-to-participant ratios to ensure appropriate support. The Fairfax County Public Schools Family Resource Center also maintains a recreation and summer camp list.

Arlington’s Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camps provide adaptive opportunities for individuals with disabilities aged 6-21. These programs are designed for campers who benefit from moderate to maximum personal care assistance, structured recreation participation, and social skills support in a fun, nurturing setting.

Loudoun County Adaptive Recreation Summer Camp (AR Camp) tailors its program to meet each participant’s individual needs. The camp blends traditional recreational activities with new leisure experiences, offering extra support as needed for children striving for daily success in school, community, and leisure environments.

City of Alexandria Therapeutic Recreation offers inclusive, affordable programs for residents ages 3-17 with differing abilities. Activities include sports, group games, music and movement, arts and crafts, swimming, and weekly field trips. Please note: online registration isn’t available — families should contact the Therapeutic Recreation office directly at 703-746-5535 for more details.

Here are some tips to set your child up for a successful camp experience:

• Involve your child in choosing a camp to help them feel empowered and excited.
• If possible, visit the camp location ahead of time and practice drop-offs and pick-ups.
• Keep conversations positive, focusing on specific activities they’ll enjoy rather than abstract worries like homesickness.
• Build enthusiasm by talking about new friends, outdoor games, and special events.

Happy Camper: Making Summer Camps Accessible from the Disability Law Center of Virginia suggests ways to ensure summer programs that are inclusive and supportive.