Applications are now being accepted for the 2017 Academic Fun & Fitness Camp! Even though camp is still four months away, the deadlines for financial aid are quickly approaching. Don’t miss out on your chance to apply for financial aid!
What is the Academic Fun & Fitness Camp?
The Academic Fun & Fitness Camp is a six-week summer program for students ages 6 – 19 with learning disabilities – ADD/ADHD, Asperger’s syndrome, dyslexia, LD, etc. Held on the campus of Lakeland Community College* and sponsored by the Creative Education Institute, this “un-school” camp offers multi-sensory academics combined with various activities designed to improve social skills.
Morning: Multi-Sensory Academics
The Academic Fun & Fitness Camp offers multi-sensory reading and math, including the award-winning Richards Learning Systems®. The camp directors place campers in groups of five based on academic ability. Each group focuses on a unique, personalized curriculum tailored to meet the individual needs of its campers.
Afternoon: Social Skills Activities
In the afternoon, the campers are divided into three large groups – the Cavs, the Browns, and the Indians. Each group participates in three one-hour activities, specifically designed to build confidence and increase social skills. Activities vary on a daily basis and include theatre arts, non-competitive sports, martial arts, hands-on science, music and art therapy, a Day at the Movies, and a camp carnival. On Parents Day, each camper makes a small presentation and receives award ribbons.
Financial Aid Deadlines are Approaching!
Families who are interested in the Academic Fun & Fitness Camp can apply for financial aid to assist with the cost of camp. Many financial aid sources have deadlines in March, three months before camp begins! Limited funds are available, so apply as soon as possible.
How to Apply for Financial Aid for the Academic Fun & Fitness Camp?
Before applying for financial aid, send in your child’s camp application. Many financial aid sources will not provide funding until they receive proof that the camper has been accepted into a program. Camp applications can be downloaded online at www.unschoolcamp.org.
Consider Extended School Year (ESY) Services
If your child is on an IEP (Individualized Education Plan), he/she may be eligible for Extended School Year Services. ESY is for children who need continued academic support throughout the summer to maintain or achieve their IEP goals. Call your school and request an ESY IEP meeting in March. At the meeting, discuss why you believe your child would benefit from ESY. As a parent, you get to decide which program(s) your child will participate in, so bring along a camp brochure!
Private Foundations
There are several private non-profit organizations that will provide scholarships for children with disabilities to participate in extra-curricular programs, including summer camps. You can see the full list of financial aid resources online at www.unschoolcamp.org. (Remember – many foundations have very early deadlines!)
County Services
Consider contacting your county of residence to seek financial assistance. Try your local Jobs & Family Services, Board of Developmental Disabilities, and Family and Children First Council. Full scholarships are unlikely as the counties try to spread funds among several families. But, as in all cases, you must apply early before the funding runs out.
Apply Now for the Academic Fun & Fitness Camp!
Don’t miss out on an incredible summer! Submit your child’s camp application today…then apply for financial aid before the deadlines pass you by! Visit www.unschoolcamp.org to download the 2017 application for the Academic Fun & Fitness Camp, along with a list of potential financial aid sources. We look forward to seeing you this summer!
*The Academic Fun & Fitness Camp is not affiliated with Lakeland Community College.