What Makes Our Camp Special...
Camp Willow integrates evidence-based programs that help our campers develop and maintain meaningful friendships and relationships. Our unique approach allows campers to actively practice, engage, and learn these vital skills, setting them up for lasting success.
What sets Camp Willow a part from other programs is parents/legal guardians are invited to sign up and join us on the last 2 nights of camp for their own experience participating in support groups and sessions providing them with tools to take home to help their families continue to grow together.
Benefits:
A program that engages kids
Camp Willow Approach
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Counselor to camper ratio 1:4
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Fun programs to learn, practice and instill social skills
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Engaging and challenging programs to learn and practice impulse control
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Utilize evidence-based programs
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Access to support during camp in a comforting environment
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Being in nature and technology free for 7 days
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Nutritious, delicious low sugar meals to help with focus and overall health.
Everyday Routine
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School ratio teacher to student (average) 1:30
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Difficulty with positive and lasting relationships
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Impulse struggles
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Costly interventions
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Weekly therapy sessions
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Suggested Parent therapy sessions
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Access to distracting or addictive technology
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Dietary suggestions that may be difficult to implement
Evidence-Based Practices
Our team uses specially designed programs. We strive to teach the youth techniques for making and keeping friends, improving social communication, and navigating social situations, practicing mindfulness and impulse control while providing participants with practical skills that can be applied in everyday life.
Animal Interaction
Our campsite is the home to several amazing farm animals: Chickens, goats, and pigs to name a few. Our team works closely with the kids to instill mindfulness, respect and patience utilizing opportunities of interaction with these friends. Animal-assisted interaction can be highly beneficial for children with ADHD and impulse control challenges. Interacting with animals helps improve focus, reduce stress, and encourage self-regulation. The calming presence of an animal can promote emotional stability, while the responsibility of caring for an animal can enhance a child's ability to manage impulses and develop patience.
Digital Detox
Being technology-free helps kids with ADHD by reducing distractions, improving focus, and encouraging mindfulness. Digital Detox is known to foster increased face-to-face interactions, outdoor play, and creativity, which enhance attention spans and self-regulation. Additionally, it supports better sleep patterns, reduces anxiety, and promotes physical activity, all of which contribute to overall well-being and cognitive function.
Fresh, delicious
low sugar meals
Fresh, delicious low sugar meals are provided for our campers. With farm-to-table and freshly baked goods campers won't be hungry and will have the stamina and energy for the day. These meal plans are particularly beneficial for kids with ADHD because they provide balanced nutrition while avoiding the blood sugar spikes and crashes associated with high sugar diets. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients offer essential nutrients that support brain function and overall health. At our camp, all meals are prepared fresh from farm-to-table, ensuring they are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This approach helps stabilize energy levels, improve concentration, and enhance mood, making it easier for kids with ADHD to stay focused and engaged throughout the day.
Independence
We combine fun Camp activities along with tools to help campers build independence by developing confidence, responsibility, problem solving skills and resilience, with a focus on organization, time management, and self-care. With the support of their peers and staff youth garner important life skills in an emotionally and physically safe environment.
Mindfulness
At Camp Willow, we incorporate daily mindfulness exercises that provide significant benefits for kids with ADHD, learning differences, and social anxiety. These practices help improve focus, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. By reducing impulsivity and enhancing attention, mindfulness teaches children how to better manage their emotions. Additionally, it fosters patience, empathy, and confidence, while calming the mind to promote better sleep. Overall, mindfulness equips our campers with essential tools to thrive not only at camp but also in their everyday lives.
Parent Support
We understand how challenging it can be for parents and we believe it takes a village to raise happy, healthy kids and families. Parents are invited to join us for two nights at camp , offering a unique opportunity to experience the camp environment firsthand. During their stay, parents will enjoy the serene and engaging camp setting have the opportunity to participate in a support group tailored to address their needs and concerns.
Additionally, parents will engage in sessions designed to provide a deeper understanding of the tools and strategies Camp Willow uses with their children. These sessions will cover practical techniques and insights on implementing similar methods at home, ensuring continuity and support beyond the camp experience.
This immersive experience allows parents to see the camp’s approach in action, gain valuable skills, and connect with other families, enhancing their ability to support their child’s growth and development.