Swimming, storytelling, campfires and arts and crafts – these are just some of the activities that children everywhere enjoy at summer camp.

Since 1988, the YAI Network has partnered with the Frost Valley YMCA in the Catskill Mountains to offer the YAI Mainstreaming at Camp (MAC) program. MAC offers inclusive camping opportunities to children, ages 6-18, with disabilities.

This summer, through four, 2-week sessions, MAC provided 140 camper opportunities to children with developmental disabilities eager to attend camp. Specially trained counselors make the camping experience more accessible by meeting the specific needs of each camper while simultaneously offering an opportunity for inclusive activities with their typically developing peers.

For the very first time, MAC this summer launched an innovative new Autism Pilot Program. Developed through a collaboration by Dr. Charles Cartwright, Director of the YAI Autism Center, and Occupational Therapist and YAI Clinical Consultant Becky Lewin, the program housed six boys, ages 8-12, in a cabin together. The focus was on implementing activities, interventions and evidence-based best practices to help children on the autism spectrum communicate, socialize and develop greater independence.

Becky worked with MAC counselors to accomplish the program’s goals by introducing sensory tools such as a squeeze ball, “time timer” and kaleidoscope that helped the boys engage in their environment and learn calming techniques.

“The sensory tools help us better meet the kids’ needs in a way that naturally integrates within the structure of camp,” said Becky.

 “It’s all about finding unique ways for the kids to express themselves and grow,” said MAC counselor Clara Flaherty.

Another unique component of the MAC Autism Pilot Program was a research-based Lego activity in which MAC campers and typically developing campers worked together in small groups. “The Legos offer orderliness, structure and routine, but more importantly, they also offer our kids an opportunity to probe their creative side and to express themselves within a medium they’re comfortable in,” said Kevin Travers, Assistant Director of YAI Clinical & Family Services.

“The Lego activity works on so many levels,” continued Becky. “All kids at this age are learning about sharing, creative thinking, communicating and team building. It’s mainstreaming based on a common interest.”

MAC Counselor Ryan Balker noticed the impact of the Lego activities on all of the campers. “Each day, you could really see a change in thought process,” he said. “Campers stopped asking for help and began to problem solve independently. It was remarkable.”

“The goal as a parent with a special needs child is to give them as many opportunities for independence as possible, and camp gives them a chance to develop daily living skills,” said Kirsten, mother of camper Michael, who participated in the MAC Autism Pilot program. “Michael got to socialize with typically developing kids from other cabins and, since returning from camp, he has been far more open to interacting with other children. The focus on occupational therapy was tremendously supportive in helping both boys develop routines. The program was incredibly effective.”

The success of MAC would not be possible without the tremendous support from YAI Network’s Brighter Futures Society (BFS), a group of over 60 young professionals who volunteer time with YAI Network program participants and outreach friends, family and the community to support The BFS Camp Scholarship Fund. This scholarship provides financial aid to families in need. The BFS has been supporting MAC for the past three years, and in that time they’ve raised over $54,000, allowing 49 families send children to camp.

Added Kevin, “MAC is a win-win-win. Campers increase self-esteem and learn coping and social skills, families receive respite and typically developing campers are given the opportunity to interact with and change the way they look at people with disabilities. Everyone wins.”

Happy mom Kirsten agrees. “I feel very lucky that my son and could be part of this growing experience and I am so hopeful that MAC will continue this Autism Program in the future.”