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Comments
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6/5/19 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I went to this camp for two years and had the best time of my life. I made friends and one friend that I still am friends with 6 years later. The counselors are amazing and I still talk to my counselors all the time. The counselors really become your role models. They believe in you when you don’t believe in yourself. They are so amazing. I have so many fond memories. They really do care about you and want to see you succeed. Best camp I ever went to. I finally was able to fit in for once in my life. Akeela is amazing and I recommend it to anyone that struggles socially.
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1/29/19 |
2 |
4 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
In my opinion, they are making money off being a special needs camp, while rejecting kids who do not meet THEIR needs. I would like to warn other parents to be cautious in their hopes of acceptance. My child, who has an IQ of 140, has HFA, is in an ICT program, and has successfully attended camp with neurotypical kids, was rejected because during the open house she demonstrated issues with transitions & inattentiveness and these issues were confirmed by written statements from school professionals. But even though the statements also mentioned her many strengths, she was deemed to be the wrong fit for the camp because "she would require too much special attention." They never even ask for her neuropsych or IEP. I am not sure what to think of a camp for kids who are 'quirky' (not exactly DSM-V terminology) that seems to accept only quirky but problem-free kids. I am sure that some who read this will think "sour grapes" To those who do, I wish you the best of luck!
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11/10/17 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son attended the 2017 Beyond Akeela program. It was an exceptional experience for him. He made real and lasting connections with peers who, like him, are getting ready for college. The owners are wonderful. The curriculum and the staff who implemented it were consistent and patient, as my son can be rather challenging at times. He is getting ready for a transitional program that would not be possible were it not for Beyond Akeela. Cannot recommend highly enough.
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*
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8/6/16 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This is an exceptional camp. My quiet and "quirky" son refuses to leave his bedroom and video games. However, after a month at Camp Akeela, he returned home more confident, independent, and open to trying new experiences. Plus, he made some good friends who he keeps in touch. Most importantly, he had fun!The camp staff was very responsive to his needs and was always in touch with me when issues arose. The staff absolutely "gets" Aspergers, HFA and PDD-NOS kiddos. With that said, this is not a camp for kids with true special needs, requiring a full-time aid or significant support. Camp Akeela campers are self-sufficient, but just need an extra bit of social support and staff who understand their quirks without judgment (picky eating, literal thinking). Akeela campers fall within that grey area of kids who could easily attend a "regular" camp, but might struggle fitting in with their peers because they are "not cool enough" or are "too nerdy" or "quirky."
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1/7/16 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son was thrilled with his experience at Camp Akeela. From the moment he arrived, he felt "at home" while also experiencing independence and responsibility. Akeela's small cabin groups and high counsellor/camper ratio gave him the attention he needs to thrive. He has made friends that he can relate to that he speaks with about his home experience nearly every day. Additionally, the senior leadership is very responsive and know that parents will have their measure of anxieties about their children being away at camp. In every instance, the staff has been informative and has even given us knew ideas that we can use at home. Thank you!
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12/4/15 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My child's idea of heaven. Akeela has a tremendously hard-working staff who care deeply about the kids and helping them gain independence, make friends, have a great time, and learn and grow. They really know the kids and give them opportunities to boost their skills (swimming, boating, tennis, golf, hiking, etc.), but the biggest emphasis is on having a great summer experience, being part of a community, and working on making and being a friend. I can't say enough great things about Akeela, which has been a transformative experience for our child (who would prefer to live there year round!).
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11/15/15 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
3 |
Camp Akeela was the perfect fit for my son who attended sleep away camp for the 1st time. Although he experienced the usual separation anxiety, the staff at Camp Akeela worked together to create a safe & caring environment so my son felt comfortable. My son enjoyed most of the many activities they offered at camp. He was excited to see us at pick up & showed us around the whole camp. He introduced us to staff and fellow campers. I have no regrets Camp Akeela was the best fit for my son!!
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11/14/15 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Camp Akeela was the most amazing place for our son! He has a diagnosis of NLD (NonVerbal Learning Disorder) and although he attends our public middle school, he never quite fits in...that wasn't the case here. He left Akeela with true friends, an increased self confidence and the knowledge of what it's like to be part of a social group. The day that we picked him up was so amazing; although we missed him terribly, one look at him and I knew it was the best decision we had ever made! He was so happy and self confident, he couldn't wait to introduce us to his new friends and the staff. The staff is truly what makes this place special. They were all so amazing - they KNEW my kid! To hear the things that they said about him, it was just such wonderful confirmation to know that he they "got him". The directors, Debbie and Eric, do a fabulous job of running camp and hiring such qualified, caring staff members. It was so nice to know that you could reach out to them at any time.
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11/13/15 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Camp Akeela has become a central part of our son's life. This is where he has made true friends, found confidence in himself, and grown in ways that we never could have dreamed. Two central things stand out: Akeela staff are the most dedicated and skilled that we have met, compared to staff at 3 other overnight camps. They have superb training, take their jobs seriously, and truly love our son (and his bunkmates). Issues that might have become disasters at another place have been dealt with gently and with an eye towards helping our son learn how to become his best self, and a self who is aware of how he impacts others. The second- Debbie and Eric have designed the camp with such attention to detail - from a sensory friendly dining hall, to labels and schedules in the bunks, to evening meetings which boost the kids' confidence, to putting staff teams together only after staff orientation to make sure that a group works well together. We can't say enough about this amazing place!
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11/1/15 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
Camp Akeela is an excellent, well- run camp. My son has been going there for several years, and loves it. The owners, Erik and Debbie are very knowledgeable, professional, capable, and responsive to any concerns. The only time I had a concern was once when my son informed me that another camper had been acting out to the point of hitting. I asked Erik and Debbie about it, and was informed that they had been working very closely with this camper and had decided that he needed to be sent home. I was very relieved that this camper would not be ruining my son's time at camp. I think that, in this case, Erik and Debbie made the correct choice. I felt badly for the parents of the other camper, but they had to keep the needs of all of the campers in mind. That was 2 years ago, and my son has had nothing but wonderful experiences there. I have even spent a week there myself at the end of the summer at a "Family camp" week, so I know how well- run it is. Also, the food is delicious.
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10/29/15 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our 13 year old son with social challenges attended this camp in the summer of 2015 and had an absolutely wonderful, transformational experience. He cried when he left and he told us that for the first time in his life, he understood what it means to have friends and why people love that so much. The camp leaders (Debbie and Eric) are incredibly caring and responsive and they carefully select a truly outstanding, charismatic, and energetic staff. They also very thoughtfully interview each child and family to create cohesive groups of kids in the cabins. The are numerous exciting activities (tennis, sailing, archery, hiking, rocketry, camping, campfires, woodworking, claymaking, art, polypong, etc), but the the greatest value of the camp is the way they support the kids to develop and experience meaningful relationships with each other. Our son will always treasure this, and we remember it as the time when he really learned why we all love having friends!
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10/29/15 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
My son has never been diagnosed to be on the AS scale, but he is somewhat socially awkward (even for a teen) and absolutely 'quirky'. We tried several of the popular and high end camps. Akeela was the FIRST and ONLY camp he has ever wanted to return to. His experience hasn't always been perfect, but it has helped him develop and grow tremendously. Each summer he has returned home feeling better about himself and his social capabilities. He is more resilient and more responsible. This past summer he stayed for both sessions. During the first session there was a disruptive and unpleasant camper in his bunk. The counselors worked with all the boys to figure things out. The second session was much better and my son was really glad (and proud) that he stayed for it instead of coming home. I can't say enough good things about Akeela. I'm so grateful for all they do. Happy to talk to anyone about our experiences there!
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10/28/15 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Camp Akeela is a terrific and accepting place for kids with social and or learning differences. The owners and counselors are well prepared and well trained to deal with issues that arise in this population. Our son has been there for two years. I look at the website every night, following the activities of the day closely. The options and activities are geared towards the strengths and needs of this population. I would highly recommend it.
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10/28/15 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
For the past two years, my daughter has attended Beyond Akeela, a fabulous 3-week travel camp for older teenagers. They traveled to Quebec, Montreal, the Berkshires, Acadia National Park, and many other fascinating locations. They camped, stayed in college dorms and at hotels. They hiked, did ropes courses, went white water rafting, saw plays and musicals, and explored historic places. The Beyond Akeela staff were patient, attentive, and encouraging with my daughter. Staff guided her through some emotional challenges with skill and compassion. They treated these campers like young adults and helped them gain skills in independence, decision making, money management, cooking, and navigating social interactions. My daughter made wonderful friends, including a boy who lives about 45 minutes away who she invited to her prom last spring! It is difficult to find camps for older teens, and this camp was a godsend. Please contact me if you would like more information. We love Beyond Akeela!
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10/28/15 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son has attended Camp Akeela for the past 4 years, most recently on Beyond Akeela. Before Akeela, we had tried several other summer options, and we thought we would never find a program that so closely meshed with his school-year program and where the peer group was exactly the right fit. Even his IEP goals match the program and goals the camp directors have created and strive to help each child attain. The counselors are extremely well trained in assisting this particular camper population to gain the skills and confidence they need to further their independence. At first we thought being away from us for 3 1/2 weeks might be too much for our son, especially without electronics--how wrong we were! He participated in all the activities of a traditional summer camp...with all the love of home. It really is like a family there, and we trust the directors and staff implicitly. Communication is excellent, and our picky eater loves the food. We couldn't recommend Akeela more highly.
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10/21/15 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
My parents sent my brother and I here- worst summer camp I've ever been to. They spent 14k to send us there and it was worse than the previous camp I'd attended, which was only $500 a week. The "food" was cheap, disgusting crap and made me break out and resemble a pepperoni pizza. The cabins were also disgusting and only had 2 of each (toilets, sinks, showers.) You are also only allowed to take 5 minute showers there, which promotes bad hygiene. I also celebrated my birthday there; it was by far the worst birthday that I've ever had. They made me this brownie cake, that tasted like it was out of the box, with a side of chocolate ice cream. Those two together are not a good combination. They also forced me to have what I call a "fake birthday party" because it was with the people in my bunk who I abhorred. When I complained, I was called a spoiled brat. This camp was not the right place for me and I would only recommend sending your kid there if they are VERY socially impaired.
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7/6/14 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Before Akeela, My son was very rigid and hostile to change. he was rude to many and uncooperative to most. He was, to put it mildly, unhappy about going to Akeela the 1st time. He later told his grandmother that he deliberately tried to not have fun at Akeela just to spite his mother. Yet, by the end, he has many friends he has kept up with as pen pals and was in tears for it to be over. The exercise aspect (a risk area)is inclusive not competitive. the common activities (a high risk area) are friendly not show-off time. The food is excellent. the counselors are deeply engaged. Another older review on this site cited issues with removed/detached staff. I aggressively disagree. My son went in with a wheelbarrow of those issues and emerged demanding to know when Akeela started again. He (and his parents) hope to continue to return for years to come.
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3/4/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My daughter has attended Camp Akeela for four years and she will be attending again this summer in the Beyond Akeela program. My husband and I have seen a big difference in her since she began attending this camp. She has learned to try to new things and has developed a more positive attitude. Prior to attending this camp, her self-esteem was very low. Now she will say that Camp Akeela has helped give her the confidence to try new activities and to try to interact with other kids. Immediately after the first summer at camp, my husband and I noticed how helpful my daughter was around the house and how she was more considerate of others. Yes, this camp is expensive, but it has truly made a positive difference in my daughter's life! I highly recommend Camp Akeela.
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6/26/12 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
3 |
2 |
My Asperger's son did not have a good experience at Camp Akeela. He was asked to leave after 2 weeks because of his outbursts and because he required too much attention from the staff, as reported by the psychologist in charge. I thought outbursts are typical of Asperger's kids, and that the whole idea of the camp was to be able to handle these situations. I'm still confused as to what kind of special needs kids are successful at this camp, but I guess they must not have many social problems, otherwise they would be asked to leave, like my son. My son made no friends, and in fact, his bunkmates alienated him. One kid threatened to harm him while he was sleeping. The counsellors were great, and my son ended up hanging out only with them, not with other kids. The activites and cabins also seemed nice. I guess it's a good camp if your child only has a few problems, but I'll be looking for another camp, that's more equipped to deal with special needs kids.
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2/17/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son who was diagnosed with AS has trouble fitting in with nuero-typical children. For 3 1/2 weeks, my son feels a sense of belonging, community and acceptance. He confidently partakes in activities and foster his own independence. He looks forward to 3 1/2 weeks that he can be himself and at the same time is given the guidance and assistance he needs to improve his social skills. What is remarkable is that we see changes when he returns home. For three summer we have had terrific communication with the camp and staff. I was always kept informed and asked for input to make my sons experience successful. Many of the campers and staff have returned every summer and the bonds are amazing. I guess the proof is in the request that I received from my son last night, he pleaded to be able to attend Akeela for both sessions. Choosing a camp for a special child is confusing and scary, Akeela has proven to be a safe and nurturing gift for our son. THANK YOU CAMP AKEELA!!!
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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2/15/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Camp Akeela is a place unlike any other. There are not enough words that can be said that fully encompass all that Akeela truly is. Akeela provides an unbelievable opportunity for both campers and counselors alike to grow personally while growing together as a community. The staff is very carefully hand picked and trained to be the best staff possible for the variety of campers Akeela sees each summer. From personal experience as a counselor the last two summers at Akeela, I have not met one parent of any one of my campers that had a bad thing to say about Akeela. Akeela is dedicated to finding the best possible way for each child to fit in, while at the same time, figuring out who they are. It is so rare that you find a place that you can call home after such a short amount of time. Akeela is home, and it is where so many of us have left our hearts, and will leave our hearts, for a very, very long time. "But much more like a family, this place is in my soul". <3
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2/15/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
The best summers of my life have been at Camp Akeela as a staff member. I’ve never worked with such qualified individuals and have always considered returning to a place that is so welcoming. The small camp environment allowed me to feel comfortable and become a member of a place, that I now consider, my second home. I have worked closely with the campers and staff that are now my forever friends. Camp Akeela was my address for a few short months, but has positively impacted my professional development and understanding of kids with social difficulties. If I were still a kid, I would tell my parents to send me to Camp Akeela, where they celebrate differences and encourage independence! Camp Akeela, thanks for enriching my life and I’ll always come back to check on the art barn.
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2/9/11 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
My son went there and I did not realize until I picked him up just how miserable he was there. The staff never contacted me about any of the issues until I picked him up. When I questioned the staff and stated that the trained pychologist regarding the issues she did not have an answer. I would NEVER RECOMMEND this camp to any parent who has a child with AS, aspergers or ADHD(the staff does not have a clue how to deal with these children.
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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9/25/09 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
I also worked their this summer and I do agree that a lot of the counselors do make fun of the kids. The cabins were very cold at night so if you did not bring a lot of blankets you would freeze. It was uncomfortable to even use the bathroom because they built the toilets so close tot he door.
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SYSTEM: 2 negative duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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5/2/09 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
Camp Akeela is a relatively new camp which caters towards campers which experience difficulty forming social connections; for example, those with Asperger's Syndrome or ADD/ADHD. The camp is small and intimate (although growing every year) and the directors and staff are genuinely dedicated to creating a warm and characterful camp experience, which changes campers' lives. Speaking as a former member of staff, I felt that we were very well trained, pre-camp, to understand this emphasis, shown how to facilitate social bonding whilst preventing exclusion or homesickness. Virtually every camper went home with entirely positive memories, which is more than can be said for other camps with more laissez-faire attitudes towards their camper's psychological well-being. My only criticism is that the facilties are slightly run-down and the program limited; but the object is to send campers home with a graft of new friends and a smile on their face, and at this Akeela certainly succeeds.
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10/13/08 |
4 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
Good but they made you swim in the lake when it was cold around 8:50 in the lake
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Rate this summer camp
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