This season, we’re proud to highlight the Special Education Foundation’s Kid-to-Camp program. This meaningful opportunity helps students served by the Special School District of St. Louis County (SSD) attend camp during academic breaks. More than just a fun experience, Kid-to-Camp opens doors for growth, connection, and independence for students, while also providing families with an invaluable opportunity to pause, recharge, and find renewed hope.

What Is the Kid-to-Camp Program?

Kid-to-Camp provides financial assistance, or “camperships,” so students in SSD-served programs can attend day or overnight camps during winter break and other school-year breaks.

• Applications are now open for Summer break and are accepted year-round for other academic breaks.
• Eligibility: Families may apply once per calendar year.
• Assistance is need-based, considering both financial need and the benefit to the student.
• Camps supported through the program offer enriching social, educational, and recreational experiences.

Tyler had a blast last summer, and I owe it all to your organization. He enjoyed going to different places, participating in different activities, and going for rides.He would not have been able to attend if it weren’t for your generosity!” ~Happy Mom

The Benefits of Camp for Children with Disabilities

Sending a child to camp isn’t “just fun.” Research and experience consistently show that camp environments provide lasting, evidence-based benefits for children with disabilities.

Building Social Skills & Friendships
Camp creates natural opportunities for children to connect with peers in structured, supportive settings. Through group activities, games, and shared experiences, students develop communication skills, practice teamwork, and experience the powerful feeling of belonging.

Growing Independence & Confidence
Camp encourages children to step outside of their usual routines in safe and empowering ways. Choosing activities, learning new skills, and navigating daily schedules help build autonomy. Inclusive and adaptive camps focus on strengths and abilities, helping children see themselves — and be seen by others — as capable, valued individuals.

Maintaining Momentum Between School Sessions
Breaks in the school year can sometimes mean a loss of routine and social engagement. Camp helps bridge that gap, maintaining social-emotional growth and preventing the “break slump.” As SEF often shares, bridging the instructional and social gap during school breaks is critical to sustaining progress.

To explore camp options for your child, we invite you to visit our website to view a list of possible day and overnight camps that have been a great fit for SSD-served students. This resource can help you begin thinking about the environment and experience that will best support your child’s interests and needs.

Before applying, please review our Kid-to-Camp Policy for full eligibility guidelines, financial criteria, and request limits.