Does your child participate in structured activities?
- Activities at Camp Crinkleroot are designed to be fun and engaging, similar to a traditional summer camp. While each camper is paired with an App State student who provides individualized support, activities take place in a group setting alongside other camper-counselor pairs. Throughout the day, campers rotate through a variety of experiences that include music, creative projects, and physical movement.
Does your child participate independently in hygienic tasks (toileting, washing hands)?
- Camp Crinkleroot counselors are not permitted to assist campers with toileting, so campers must be able to use the bathroom independently. Counselors will provide reminders and encouragement for handwashing after bathroom use.
Does your child show interest in making friends and engaging with friends?
- Children socialize in many different ways, and we recognize that many kids on the autism spectrum want to connect with their peers but have difficulty in knowing how to do that. Your feedback helps us tailor strategies, set appropriate expectations, and create positive experiences so your child feels safe, included, and successful at camp.
Does your child remain engaged without the assistance of technology (phone, tablet, computer)?
- Camp Crinkleroot is designed to encourage interaction with peers and App State counselors through hands-on, sensory, creative, and movement-based activities. Personal technology can make it harder for campers to connect with others and often distracts nearby campers, so devices are discouraged unless they are used strictly for communication purposes (for example, an AAC device).
Does your child advocate for their own needs?
- Camp Crinkleroot counselors receive basic training in supporting children with ASD, and some may have additional experience. However, camp is a busy and active environment, and it is very helpful when campers can let others know what they need in the moment so we can respond quickly and appropriately.
There is no expectation that a child must use spoken language. Advocacy can look like gestures, AAC devices, visual supports, or prompting a trusted adult.
Does your child remain safely in designated areas without wandering or running away?
- Camp Crinkleroot takes place across multiple spaces and includes transitions between activities, so it is important for campers to stay with their counselor and group unless directed otherwise. Our counselors are not permitted to physically restrain campers, so this information is especially important for maintaining a safe environment.
Is your child able to remain calm in the presence of varying sounds and noises (with or without adaptive devices)?
- Camp Crinkleroot includes music, group activities, outdoor play, movement, and transitions, so the environment can sometimes be louder or less predictable than a quiet classroom or home setting. We can provide warnings before louder activities, identify quieter spaces to help support regulation when needed.
If you can answer “yes” to these questions, Camp Crinkleroot is likely a great fit for your camper! If you have concerns about any of them, please feel free to reach out, we’re happy to talk through your child’s needs. Parents or caregivers are always welcome to attend camp alongside their camper to provide additional support if needed.
Contact Mary Sheryl Horine horinems@appstate.edu if you have questions.