|
 or most kids, summer camp is a great experience – and one that shouldn’t be missed out on – even if a child has special needs that aren’t met by other camp programs. That’s why Harbor Haven, a renowned, state certified summer program for children ages 3 to 15 with mild to moderate special needs, is, indeed, a haven.
Founded as a natural outgrowth of founder, co-owner, and site-director Robyn Tanne’s extensive experience in both special education and traditional summer camp settings, Harbor Haven, is able to meet the needs of these children. Here, youngsters with mild special needs are given personalized attention in small groups with low child/teacher ratios – and the experienced staff consists of special education teachers, social workers and various professionals in the special needs community.
One of the primary goals of the program, says Tanne,  is making sure that children with special needs do not regress over the summer months while school is not in session. To that end, this camp offers a nurturing setting in which kids can have fun while expanding their social, communication, and education skills. During daily academic reinforcement periods, a special education teacher utilizes each child’s individual educational plan to reinforce reading, language arts, and math skills.
In addition, a speech and language therapist conducts language workshops and implements activities that reflect the children’s needs in that area. Tanne explains. Occupational therapists also work with groups on sensory motor integration.
“A lot of our children are very sensitive about sounds, tastes, texture,” she notes. “The occupational therapist is aware of the
Another important component of the program – and one it excels in – is enhancing social skills. Daily activities provide a neutral setting for peer interaction and kids participate in twice-weekly workshops at which a trained social skills facilitator formulates lessons, based on the needs of the group, such as ”making friends and keeping friends, managing frustration, respecting each other’s personal space, making eye contact during conversation; and, for a younger child, play skills and turn-taking,” says Tanne.
Situated on a beautiful eight-acre private school campus, Harbor Haven offers a full range of exciting and fun summer activities, like swimming, biking, sports and arts and crafts, karate, tennis, gymnastics, cooking, photography, music, drama, dance, computers, yoga, day trips and special events.
Accredited by the American Camping Association, Harbor Haven is now in its 11th year, and has a second location in Marlboro, NJ; in most cases, door-to-door transportation is available. “ We give children an environment in which they can succeed, flourish, and have fun,” says Tanne. “I feel extremely happy that we’ve been able to provide such a positive experience.” |
