TEAMM'S Adventure Based Programs

Kamp Kaleidoscope is an inclusive summer camp program providing summer camp fun for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The camp is attended by children diagnosed with ASD and their neuro-typical peers providing a fun and educational summer experience. Kamp Kaleidoscope was founded by Dr. Mark H. Yeager and was developed to meet the summer program needs of children with ASD who were either not accepted to other camps due to their diagnosis or space was not available. The basis for the camp is steeped deep in the concept of socialization with neuro-typical peers. The need to develop these skills is found at the center of all activities conducted at the camp.

Though labor intensive, the camp is the hottest event within the autism community in Mississippi and interest from volunteers and college campuses continue to grow. In 2008 the counselor staff included volunteers from 6 different countries and students from 8 different colleges and universities. Camp staff includes full time members who are autism specialists, behavior management specialists, physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, equestrian enthusiasts, psychologists, music therapists, educators, speech pathologists, outdoor specialists and folks that just want to have fun. Each camper has an assigned counselor who is under the guidance of a lead counselor trained in the “Kamp Kaleidoscope Method”.

Music, the universal language, has always been a big part of Kamp Kaleidoscope. Not only is it one of the biggest interactive activities, the music program at Kamp is fine tuned for fun! The Kamp music experience is not only therapeutic; it’s an opportunity for many children on the spectrum to relate with those around them. It provides them a chance to laugh, yell, and dance while participating in one of the most sensory stimulating events during their stay. At the end of Kamp parents will have the benefit of experiencing all the children’s’ music in our Kamp Program! Our music program allows all Kampers an outlet to express themselves in their own personal way, while experiencing all the joys music has to offer.

Kamp Kaleidoscope’s arts and craft program is second to none! From custom leather bracelets to unique pottery, our art program offers all the benefits of therapeutic recreation by stimulating the mind as well as the hands. There is no better feeling in the heart of a parent than holding a one-of-a-kind creation by their child.

Horseback riding provides a sensation that is very appealing to children with autism spectrum disorders. Our Riding Program uses activities on horseback that are meaningful and memorable to not only our Kampers, but many of our Kounselors as well! Specific riding skills are not taught (as in therapeutic riding), but rather a foundation is established to improve neurological function and sensory processing. Horse riding is another way Kamp provides the crossover experience between therapy and fun!

Our biggest attraction at Kamp, swimming, provides on the single most effective sensory outlet to children on the spectrum. We offer a gigantic pool area supervised by certified professional lifeguards at all times. Every child swims with their counselor ensuring continuous human interaction while enjoying the cool escape from the summer heat. Not only is swimming an extremely effective cardiovascular activity, it also promotes muscle coordination. We also thoroughly enjoy how much excess energy everyone sheds while laughing and splashing. It tends to help everyone sleep a little better at night!

Fishin’n…now that’s REAL KAMP FUN! Our fishing program has always been a big hit with everyone at Kamp. Making the best use of a well stocked lake, the Kampers are guaranteed to make the catch of their life…big or small! Fishing will be able to not only help our Kampers fish better, but can give many of them a better understanding of the sport of fishing. Just another way Kamp is expanding to include a wide variety of interests and recreation.

Our most inspiring activity at Kamp. Although the climbing wall can be daunting to many, with the help of professionals and Kounselors, our Kampers reach for the stars on a manmade wall 30 feet tall. Complete with safety harness, helmet and a guiding hand, Kampers reach new heights while, for many, overcome a real fear.  Providing a neurological maze of sensory stimuli and a unique experience sure to be memorable, climbing and rappelling has become a tradition at Kamp kaleidoscope.

What’s camp without a Kampfire? All the benefits of a controlled environment and all the fun of roasting marshmallows over the open fire! Kampers get to participate in an old tradition, singing songs around the fire and enjoying the moonlit night.

An evening of pure enchantment and a Kamp Kaleidoscope exclusive! The Kaleidoworks Fireworks Finale is ALWAYS a crowd pleaser. We’re not talking bottle rockets and firecracker. This is the real deal! Although fireworks are sometimes avoided by families and individuals with autism because of the obvious over stimulation of light and sound, we continue to provide myth busting environments for our kids.

Dance till you drop is the motto and that’s what we’ll do! With all the feel of a real disco, complete with lights, moving graphics and the best music around, Danceoscope is nothing but a Party! Snacks, refreshments, and shakin’ till you just can’t shake anymore, Kounselors and Kampers alike laugh their selves silly and do their best to keep up with the crowd. It’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s sure to wake the forest. Our Kamp Dance is second to none!

Movies on the big screen! Although not considered a typical camp activity, movie night is one of the most anticipated nights at Kamp. Front row seats for everyone to view the Kaleid-o-Tron,  Kamp’s very own big screen. So grab your buddy, grab your popcorn, and settle in for a night at the movies.

 

Children must be between the ages of 7 and 17

Children must have a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, or a Related Developmental Disability.

Kamp Kaleidocope involves a great deal of walking, including trails and hills. This should be considered when applying.

Children must be able to participate in the daily activities and programs at Kamp.

Kamp Kaleidoscope is helped made possible through a supporting grant by the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, Bureau of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ATTENDING KAMP KALEIDOSCOPE, CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT AN APPLICATION.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BEING A KAMP KOUNSELOR, CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT AN APPLICATION.