Enhancing Inclusion for Campers with Sensory-Processing Concerns through Camp Counselor Training

Positive outcomes emerge through such counselor/youth bonds as: * Enhanced self-esteem * A sense of identity * Increased social skills * Increased responsibility for both camper and counselor (Halsall et al., 2016) In addition, camp counselors help support youth in specific skill development (such as sports and crafts) and facilitate personal growth through leadership and peer interaction. While counselor training often includes cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), first aid and safety, and use of camping equipment, social-emotional training and inclusion/ participation initiatives are less common despite their benefits for both the counselor and campers. [...]a training program was developed to assist counselors to facilitate inclusion and participation of campers who were unable to follow the camp routine, structure, and activities. Developmental milestones for the preadolescent period were also reviewed, including the needs of: * Independence * Expression of autonomy * Self-advocacy * Acceptance of responsibility (Case-Smith & O'Brien, 2015) With these concepts as a foundation, session instruction continued with discussion of sensory processing.