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 in 2001 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 past years, the counselor staff has 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. Campers have an assigned counselor who is under the guidance of a lead counselor trained in the “Kamp Kaleidoscope Method”.

The new Kamp Kaleidoscope format will include sessions that are designed with some sessions providing one-on-one supervision and others with campers working in small groups of 3 to 4 with a counselor.  Parents should be sure which level of supervision their camper requires.  The posted schedule will indicate the type session that is being help on a particular date.

Kamp Kaleidoscope criteria for attendance

• 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 Kaleidoscope 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.  Consideration is given in helping each camper participate.  A camper can opt out of an activity if necessary.