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Comments
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8/27/19 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Soar has been a blessing for our son! This is the second year we are sending him there last year was the llama trek in the Smokey mountains for 12 days and when he came back he said he wanted to go longer further so he did Wyoming for a 3 week horsepacking this summer and loved every minute of it! Next year he said he wanted to do two courses he clearly can’t get enough. He always comes back more grown up more aware of his surroundings more organized and more compliant and super happy more importantly! Like I said I cannot thank the staff enough for their patience with our little guy and teaching him how to work better with his peers and control his impulses.Thank you Soar!!
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5/31/17 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Actually I must confess that my son never attended this camp although he was accepted 6 months ago. Last week we drove to Balsam from Chapel Hill (4 1/2 hour drive) for an orientation expecting my son Alex to start camp in 2 weeks. After a few minutes with the camp admission director Lynne Neaves, we were told that my sons IQ was not quite high enough so therefore he was not a fit for the camp. We were not offered any apologies or any other options since at this time it was too late to register him anywhere else. Not to mentioned that I had already provided them with all of the additional forms required including medical. Whether this was sheer incompetence or a mistake on their part, not making any compensatory suggestion for placement was nothing short of cruel. If you do decide to apply for this camp and receive an acceptance letter do no assume that it is final. Make sure you meet right away since you now no they see no issues with changing their mind at the last minute.
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9/2/16 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I had 13 yr old boy/girl twins attend SOAR this past summer. I was very pleased with SOAR. I felt they were experienced and had the knowledge to help my children with special needs. They seemed to "get" them, be equipt with the knowledge needed in day to day functioning and great communication during camp with me. I am hoping we can do SOAR again next summer, an amazing camp well suited for our special kiddos.
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8/31/16 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My 15 yr old attended Academic Adventure. He does not like academics or outdoor adventure, but after research we felt it was the best bet to advance his executive functioning. He absolutely LOVED it, even the academic portion. We felt so supported by the staff and the difference in our son is still in effect. The other camp he attends noticed the difference, too. He now tells us he can do things like cook his own meals and takes on more responsibility at home and school. I should note that he was really unhappy about going, but the staff was able to work through his issues and let us know what they were doing to ease his transition. He can't wait to go back. We feel we got more than our money's worth. I am a jaded mom of 6 and this is the youngest. I've never recommended a camp as much as I have SOAR.
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4/12/16 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
There isn't enough words to express our gratitude, on what SOAR means to our family. It all began three years ago during the summer of 2013. Our 15 year old son Christopher was going to camp (away from home) for the very first time. We had looked for years at options that were local to us, but found day camps, and nothing geared towards kids with ADHD or LD. That is until we found the summer camp guide in the ADDitude magazine. We all decided to head up to Balsam for their open house in April and we were very comfortable with what we learned; saw and those who we met. We registered Chris for Academic Discovery the first year (28 days) and when the time came - we were all nervous; worried; filled with what ifs! Here we are today, after three successful summers @ SOAR! There isn't any hesitation when it comes to deciding where Chris will go for his summer camp experience! We are grateful to SOAR and the staff - they have taken very good care of our son!!!!
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4/8/16 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son has ADHD and is on the Autism spectrum. Doing things outside of his "comfort zone" or breaking his routine usually leads to battles. My son has attended SOAR for the last three summers, participating in the Academic Discovery and Horseback programs. The staff is so experienced (and some have the same diagnoses). I also appreciate that my son wasn't the "odd-duck" at camp; everyone is included and encouraged to participate. A disability in the "real world" is not considered as an obstacle, but a gift that the child should understand and use in creative ways. Instead of being constantly reprimanded, a child is encouraged with positive comments and support. Such things are breaths of fresh air. My son comes home with amazing stories, a desire to cook some of the recipes he learned and a bit more independence-which, at 15 years old, is such a necessity. I always say that if I win the lottery, I would love to send him to the SOAR Acadmey. I highly recommend SOAR!
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11/11/15 |
1 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
We had a bad mix of kids with rookie staff. One kid took exception to my son laughing when he saw him writing his name in blood on his ankle. He was chased down the road and locked himself in their van for safety. He did happen to get punched in the back on the way. No one contacted me when this happened. I wished they did -- he would have come home. I found out about it a week after camp when he was able to talk about it. The release/briefing papers I got from their staff made no mention of it. I yelled at their management about how this is wrong and that their staff had to come clean. My worst nightmare. Eventually the staff came clean. However, it was because my son asked for it or it happens with these kids. I asked for a honest review of his time there == no. Instead, I get survey monkey requests asking about how my son behaves. Please! do not send your child here. This has happened before based on the questions we got in the introductory interview when we arrived.
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10/14/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
From the moment we arrived and were promptly greeted and ushered in we were confident that, for the next twelve days, this would be a place in which our son would be invested and well-cared for. After the in-brief we placed him in the very capable hands of his two counselors.
Our son received a level of love, care, growth, and encouragement from his counselors -- and a sense of comradeship with his cabin mates unparalleled to any other camps/teams/classes of which he has been a part. We (Mom, Dad, and Son) were asked our expectations at the in-brief and were updated mid-camp of progress. And when we picked our son up the counselors supplied us with suggestions/recommendations on how to follow through at home with what seemed to work best with our son as far as discipline and encouragement while at camp. Our son is still exhibiting most of the behavioral maturity that he developed while at camp. We love SOAR!
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10/9/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
Both of my children attended camp this summer and each of them really wanted to come right back to camp. My daughter told me "Dad, you just don't understand, these are my people". I so appreciated the care and attention my children received. The counselors are so dedicated and really listened to my wife and I as we developed goals for each child. Perhaps most importantly is this simple truth. My kids don't always fit in, and at SOAR they thrived. No one was bullied, goals were met, and my children were so proud of their accomplishments. Both my children are already trying to convince me to send them to the Florida Keys trip SOAR hosts over the winter break. Can't wait to hear the stories they will come back with this time.
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10/1/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My 11-year-old daughter attended the SOAR camp in North Carolina (horsepacking) this past summer. Her experience was a great success. She had a lot of fun experiences and returned home with a strong sense of accomplishment and independence. The counselors were very effective in creating a productive team environment. They also were very skilled in handling her unique needs. My daughter is very excited about returning to SOAR next summer.
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8/28/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My daughter had a wonderful time in the academic discovery program (age 15) even though she started with the mindset that she did not want to go! She was surrounded by other kids just like her and for the first time in years, fit in. The counselor/student ratio was unbelievable and they truly knew her by the end of the first week. She started school this week and seems to be making friends easier. The staff worked well with the challenges she presented (picky eating, easy frustration) and fostered her strengths (leadership and helping others). Initially I thought it was expensive but after seeing the staff to child ratio and how much the kids experienced, I believe it is an excellent value (the sanity time for the parent(s) is worth a lot too!) I would recommend this camp for any and all ADHD children.
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8/27/13 |
2 |
2 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
We chose the Academic Discovery program specifically for the classroom edcuational component. What a disappointment that turned out to be! Not one letter written during class ever made it home to us. The teacher said she gave them to the counselors for mailing, but no one knows what happened to them after that. In addition, SOAR somehow managed to lose all of the essays that were written as well. When I spoke with the Executive Director, all he could do was offer a weak apology and tell me he had no idea what happened to any of the work my son did during camp. My son had a great time and met some wonderful kids, but the educational piece did not live up to all the hype. I'm sad that my son will not have his own written words about his experiences to look back on later on.
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8/11/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
After attending the Academy at SOAR for 2 wonderful semesters, my 13 year old asked to participate in an 8 week Spanish immersion work/study program with one of the teachers and 2 other staff members from SOAR. He and 3 other boys lived and worked and travelled throughout South America for 2 months. The entire trip was chronicled on a Shutterfly site, so that I could follow the trips and watch my boy succeed! They visited the Galapagos islands,the Amazon. They went ice climbing and sand surfing. John came home with a far greater sense of self confidence and a much greater capacity for cooperating at the family level. Having experienced another culture and the many different levels of socio/economic communities that he took part in, he has a far greater appreciation for the things he has at home. He has completed the equivalent of 1 year of HS Spanish, and he is only entering 8th grade. I highly recommend becoming involved with the Academy at SOAR and any of it's summer programs.
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8/5/13 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
My son attended a SOAR program for the past 3 summers and each experience has been a great success. He has enjoyed a variety of unique and fun experiences returning home with a feeling of accomplishment and heightened self esteem. His counselors have all had impressive backgrounds with relevant experience. Feedback from my son indicates that the counselors have effectively mastered the art of balancing the needs of individual while fostering a team spirit within the group. SOAR has proven to be a highlight of the summer each year for my son and provides a welcome change from the challenges of school. Given the diversity of programs offered by SOAR and the consistent success my son has experienced, I am confident that he will return again next summer.
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8/4/13 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
After a year of searching for an appropriate setting for our 18 year old son who has ADHD, we found SOAR!!! Since he had finished his high school work he joined their transitional program for a semester in 2013. It was not an easy program but stretched him out of his comfort zone and gave him the self-confidence he needed to develop a plan A, and a plan B for his future. He learned social skills and better ways to communicate his thoughts and feelings - the experience opened his world in a new way. The adventures of canoeing, snorkeling gave him an added perspective of the world - all the time working and living in a community. It definitely helped him become more independent in his life and believe in himself - make better choices and learned to stop, think and act before plunging ahead. We were very pleased with the program at SOAR! The academic team challenged him and encouraged him to do his best. The staff was professional, warm and caring -it was worth every $!! Thank you SOAR!!!
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7/31/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I checked out SOAR on this board when looking at camps, and was concerned by a few negative reviews. So we went to the parents' weekend before committing to camp. With sessions Fri/Sat/Sun, I left feeling that they really knew what they were doing. Most importantly, we talked to them about challenges he would face at camp and whether or it would be a good fit for us and them. So with some trepidation (he's rarely been away from us), we put our 8 year old that has no close friends in llama camp. When we got back 11 days later, all he asked was if he could come back and he remembered kids' names. We were fortunate enough to end up with a standby slot for another session, and just picked him up today. For him, SOAR is a game changer. Every kid there knows what it's like to be different, and for him the acceptance and tolerance was incredible. Yes its expensive. Ask yourself how much you spend on a family vacation, and what the results would be. Then the decision becomes obvious.
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6/24/13 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
My son has been at SOAR in NC for just over 2 weeks. He suffers from ADHD and anxiety. A camp van had an accident a few days ago when a mountain road gave way (their explanation, not mine) and a couple of people went to the hospital. He has written one letter home. He is not the type to complain. He will not tell them if he's afraid or worried. I'm concerned he may have anxiety over the crash. I would like to hear from him that he's okay. We called and expressed these concerns to camp staff. We were told that we would be getting a call today to go over his progress. No call was forthcoming. A camp trying to teach my child honest-dealing and responsibility seemingly possesses neither quality. He is in a language class several hours a week, but the staff can't be bothered to have him write home. They have email...we send him some daily. He is not allowed to respond except by US mail. Since they haven't been honest and don't care about my concerns, I may go get him early.
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3/26/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
We couldn't have been more pleased with our son's experience at a SOAR camp in Wyoming in the summer of 2012. It was his first camp experience and he came away more confident in himself and his abilities. The staff was perfect with him (not smothering but supportive). He didn't stop talking for a week! He'll definitely return this summer and we truly appreciate the work they did with him.
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1/30/13 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I could not have been more disappointed with this experience. The staff read my son's medication bottle incorrectly and, despite having many supposed safeguards in place, medicated him incorrectly. When his behavior reflected his inadequate medication, they sedated him with clonidine, which I had provided for emergencies. However, no records were kept of when he was given the meds or what dosage he was given. When we counted pills after he left the camp, it was clear that other meds were not given accurately either. I had to fly to Miami to pick my son up early, and he was physically ill. The camp director said appropriate things and did reimburse us for many expenses, but not to my complete satisfaction. I do believe that this is not their norm, but I do not recommend sending any kid who needs meds to a SOAR program unless they very clearly explain what changes in policy will prevent this from happening to another child.
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10/8/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My 13 year old daughter has ADHD and a conduct and mood disorder, and she needed a camp that could help her learn how to relate better with her peers and manage her mood swings. SOAR was an amazing experience for her, and she came back more confident and more in control of herself. She learned how to set goals and achieve them, how to work well with others, how to push through frustration and fear, and she learned that she is ABLE to do all of these things. I sent her to SOAR because many of my high school students have completed SOAR programs and experienced success. I highly recommend it!
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9/26/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son had a great experience at soar, counselors were great, available and very willing to help. After a tough few days it ended up being a wonderful experience where he felt he had achieved something for him. I will definitely recommend soar for a kid on the spectrum.
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9/25/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
The staff is warm and caring, and absolutely the best. The course is challenging and will bring out the best in your young person. My son has attended both summer camp and the semester programs, and he has learned lessons and strengths that will stay with him for his lifetime.
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9/25/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son loved his week at SOAR Balsam, NC. He has attended programs in the past and has always had a positive experience. This year he was a little tentative about rafting, but he came home excited to tell us about his adventures on the water. He hopes to attend a winter break session in Florida. If that does not work for us this year, he will definitely be back in summer 2013.
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9/25/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
great experience for my son who is more mature and self confident and looking forward to the next SOAR experience.
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9/24/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This was our son's (age 17) third SOAR camp (CA Standard, WY Standard, and the FL Keys). He LOVES these trips. The staff is extremely helpful. The counselors are wonderful in positive feedback for the kids while camping. Our son always comes home more confident, more willing to try new experiences, and more responsible for himself and his belongings. He has snorkeled, rock climbed, kayaked, surfed, canoed, and all other kinds of outdoor activities. The personal attention they receive with the small student ratio is excellent. They encourage his strengths and work on his weakness. We feel the monetary value is well worth it as he comes home more mature and ready to face the new school year with a more positive attitude. Each year he has made friends that he keeps in contact with.
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9/21/12 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I acknowledge SOAR is expensive in comparison to other summer camps, facilities are rustic to put it nicely, and food could be better, but there is no way to measure the monetary value of the experiences my son has had through SOAR and the contributions they have had on his personal growth, academic development and self-esteem. The counselors and staff are great. With their support, he has fearlessly tackled challenges and learned new skills. And, on top of everything, he's had a lot of FUN too!
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9/21/12 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
The counselors were super friendly and immediately connected with her. The ratio was 2.5 kids to 1 counselor! My daughter had so much fun that she didn't want to come home. She came back more confident and responsible with some strategies to cope with things not going her way. She begged me to go to the Xmas camp or sign up right away for next year. I have every intention of sending her again next summer!
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9/21/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son has attended 3 SOAR summer camps and fully intends to do another one next year! He has done the NC Standard, WY 18 day horse trekking and the NC horse trekking camps. He has loved every single one. Even though I thought he may be too complex for the staff to deal with, they did a marvellous job. He came home having pushed hismelf out of his comfort zone and took part in activities we never thought we would see him do. The scores I have given for facilities are based on what my son has told us as he flew by himself. The counsellors are so good with the kids and our son came home feeling really good about himself and had a few friends who he keeps in touch with. He is already looking forward to next year.
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9/1/12 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
2 |
Our son attended the CA Std camp. We found the camp to be an excellent, fun outdoor adventure for him. He really liked the counselors. This was our first interaction with SOAR. They have a small camper to counselor ratio which is nice. We did not feel that they really delivered on our son coming back "more" responsible than when he left. We had higher expectations but I realize now that a 10 day camp probably can't yield too many results. Also, our son had done most of the activities they did before and is a good camper so if your son or daughter has not camped, they would grow more in their capabilities. I found the paperwork for the camp cumbersome and lengthy. Also, oddly, my son left on a plane with the right amount of medicine and yet one pill was lost upon the count in CA. No one called me the entire time to tell me about it. The camp is very expensive for the facilities/activities. He really enjoyed it but for $3500? I don't know if we can afford to do another one.
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4/8/12 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
We can't say enough about SOAR! Our son has enjoyed 4 summer camps altogether- 3 So. Cal Std and 1 Adv Scuba/Deep Sea Fishing. Yes, it was tough dropping him off, knowing I wouldn't be able to talk to him for 10 days yet the staff checked in & gave us a thorough progress report:) Through the years, they have helped him overcome his anxiety & build self-confidence as he found himself feeling safe, making choices, trying new activities & most of all, having fun again! The wonderful staff are carefully chosen & continue to AMAZE us in their ability to help him work through his fears & see things from a different perspective. Having had such great experience from his first camp, our son chose to attend the Academy. The base & field staff along with the directors have all been wonderfully supportive to him & our family. He's finishing up his 2nd year & will be graduating in May- a priceless dream come true for a kid who had trouble focusing & was often bullied in earlier HS years!
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4/1/12 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son has done two SOAR summer scuba adventures and one semester SE Coastal program so far. All three experiences were excellent and he'll be going back again this summer. For kids with low self esteem and ADHD challenges, SOAR programs give them confidence in themselves and their abilities. Working with others is critical for success in life and SOAR provides the opportunity to learn how to compromise and communicate effectively through their team approach. The staff is incredibly caring and experienced. I can't say enough good things about what SOAR has done for my son and by extension, our family.
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3/30/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our 12 year-old son has participated in 3 different SOAR summer camps over the years and is currently attending the SOAR Academy school year. Not only is he always excited to return to any program given by SOAR, but his progress on all fronts has been amazing (as observed by family, friends and therapists). Most importantly, his own observations about his life skills and social abilities have given him self-esteem and independence that give him a new and unprecedented HOPE FOR THE FUTURE! He has learned to see things from multiple perspectives, not just his own -- which is of course one of the key social skills he needed to learn! Through the physical and psychological challenges of the SOAR program, our son has learned advocate for his needs and work through challenges with people other than his parents. Our son has always been completely safe and we have fully trusted the highly trained staff, who are supportive but do not coddle our kids as parents are sometimes apt to do.
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3/29/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son has attended two Soar camps: one in N.C. and the other in Wy and he had very positive experiences at both. What really impresses our family about SOAR is that the counselors have been, across the board, outstanding.
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3/29/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son has attended SOAR for the past 4 summers and LOVED every minute of each and every adventure he participated in. SOAR is a bit on the expensive side for our family but we've done everything we can to continue providing him with the opportunity to participate at SOAR based on the development, progress and pleasure derived from each experience. The staff members are carefully trained in proven techniques to work effectively with the kids. The size of the groups and the ratio of counselors to campers is exceptional. The counselors themselves are clearly selected based on meaningful criteria. Food leaves a little to be desired but nobody ever seems to care because they are so busy having fun, fitting in, and belonging!
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3/29/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
Our Son has been to soar twice. He is going back again this summer for a third season. It is expensive BUT ,It is worth every penny. He went to NC the first year and Wyoming the second. He loved it so much he is headed back to Wyoming. We were terrified the first year putting him on a plane and knowing we wouldn’t have much , if any contact for the entire time. He did great. The staff does check in with you mid session and they do contact you as soon as they land. He experienced things he would never do at home and gained confidence beyond compare. He has a tough time at home making friends and tends to get bullied. The skills he learns at soar are invaluable. The summers he has spent there he will remember forever. I am so glad we found this program.
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3/23/12 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
This summer camp is one of the worst experiences my son had. This camp left him mentally traumatized and suicidal. One of the campers threw a burning pan at him and angrily yelled obscenities at him when he spoke out against bullying. Worst of all, I couldn't contact him and one of the camp counselors angrily accused him of being a selfish coward when he was bullied by his campers. The activities are nothing more than horrible forced marches that offer nothing helpful. He didn't help out in charities nor did he learn about subjects that would him in school. In fact, this camp worsened his social skills and learning disabilities
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11/4/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
We were pretty nervous putting our 11 year old son on a plane in New York and sending him to camp in the Florida Keys. He called us when he landed in Ft. Lauderdale and we didn't hear from him for 10 excruciating days. We had no idea of how or what he was doing, and we were constantly second guessing our decision. I can only say it was worth it. The son we got back was more confident and self-assured than I could have hoped. We made the decision to send him because he was moving into middle school and we thought it could help with the transition...we made the right decision. He actually likes school, is making new friends, and I feel safe to attribute alot of his success to attending the Florida SOAR camp. He is excited about going back and we are excited about letting him go.
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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9/13/11 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son was hesitant about going and ended up loving it. it exceed all of our expectations and is looing forward to 2012
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9/12/11 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My son had a wonderful experience. He loved the staff and really blossomed at camp. The facilities were mixed. He happened to stay in a brand new cabin, but there were other cabins that were much older and, like most camps, he complained about the food. My mother died while my son was at camp, and the staff was incredibly competent in dealing with this emergency with my son.
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9/12/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son approached the summer having turned 18 six months earlier. He had never gone to camp because he has autism and quite frankly had become a bit of a home body. This past year we sent him to SOAR wondering if he would make it. It was so nice applying and checking him in as this camp actually was asking all the right questions. They were prepared for him and we only hoped he would make it through the session. He had a great time and excelled. What a great feeling it was to see him demonstrate his independence to this extent for the first time in almost 19 years. Now we are looking at graduate opportunities for him. Our only wish is that we had found SOAR years ago.
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9/12/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son has attended 3 SOAR camps; CA Expedition, FL Keys standard, and CA standard. All great experiences, with knowledgeable, attentive and caring staff. If your child has ADD/ADHD and/or other learning differences, we cannot recommend SOAR highly enough.
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9/12/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son attended SOAR for the first time this summer somewhat reluctantly. The true measure of the camp for me that he returned home having loved it and very excited to go back next year. They were very patient to answer all my questions and very accommodating when I asked that he be able to stay 2 extra days. Despite not having a program going on at that time, they assigned him a counselor one on one for a very reasonable fee. We will definitely return next year.
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9/12/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
After my 12-year-old son was sent home from another camp last summer because they couldn't deal with his behavior, we needed to find someplace that "got" him a little better. We were VERY happy with SOAR, and more importantly, our son was happy there. In fact, he enjoyed the camp so much that he is currently spending the academic year at SOAR. As far as camp, he was only there for 12 days, so we didn't have huge expectations about his behavior changing in such a small amount of time, but it was a great chance for him to hang out with other kids and counselors who understood him and didn't see him as just "weird" or "annoying." I, personally, would hate the dirty, outdoor aspect of it, but the camp isn't for ME, and it was perfect for my son.
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*
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8/19/11 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son has attended SOAR(NC) for the past three summers. We are not parents who "dump" their problem child off for the summer (he only goes for 12 days). He loves the adventure activities and always comes back smiling and excited about new friends(!) and all of the fun things they did. This is not a fancy resort, it's an ADVENTURE camp - you can expect your kids to come back dirty/wet/bug-bitten, but also happy and more independent. His ADHD makes if difficult and negative to attend "traditional" sleepaway camps. I can send him to SOAR knowing that the counsellors will help him work on positive social interactions with the other kids (that aren't "weird" or "annoying", but like him) My son is excited to try some of the other camps, like scuba in Florida or more horseback riding in Wyoming. He loves it so much, that I would consider one of their semester couses.
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SYSTEM: 9 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
*
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2/23/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son has attended the SOAR llama treking & standard in Balsam and the Florida standard. It has been a great experience for him to have a small group camp that is prepared to address the special needs of ADHD. He has enjoyed being outside and (which he is normally on a video game) and experiencing new things. He went to Florida last year and is considering the Scuba camp this year.
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*
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2/22/11 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My 15 year old son went on a Soar Florida Standard trip. The activities were very cool - my son really enjoyed himself. (Fishing, snorkeling) Most importantly, the staff was very sensitive in helping my son feel welcomed and successful. My son has a difficult time socially but, with the help of his counselor, was able to feel a sense of belonging. My son rates his experience 10 out of ten. I wish there were a longer adventure in Florida, maybe with part of the time spent in cabins. Hopefully my son will go on a Soar adventure again in the coming summer.
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*
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2/7/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
As an ADHD/LD parent, I was elated to find a camp that focuses on the child. The staff is attentive to the child's needs and is absolutely fantastic to work with. My son, who has never been exposed to a rustic outdoors camping experience, had the time of his life and can't wait to return this summer. He returned more confident and sure of himself. And said that it was such a relief to spend time with kids who just 'got him'. While the camp is pricey, it's worth every dime. The student to counselor ratio and goal orientation (for your child)is worth it. I appreciated the written goal sheet that was provided at the end of the session. We have been able to use this information in tandem with our IEP goals at school. The only drawback to this camp would be the locations. While we have turned the SOAR pickup dates into a vacation, we would love to see a camp in Maine or Northern Wisconsin, Upper Michigan! Thank you SOAR!
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*
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2/7/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My daughter went to the Wyoming 18 day horse packing camp, and the staff there were phenomenal. My daughter doesn't like sleep-away camps, but she wanted to do this one because of the scenery and the horses. Unfortunately, she had some serious mental health issues come up between the time we applied and the start of camp. I was fully expecting that she might be sent home early because what she was experiencing would be too disruptive. Sure enough, I got a phone call and spent quite some time discussing what was happening. SOAR came up with a strategy and said they would see how it went. It went unbelievably well. Not only did my daughter settle down and cease to be disruptive, she actually became an asset to program. When I picked her up, she was in much better mental health than when I dropped her off. These folks really know what they are doing, and I would highly recommend this program to any child, even if they are trepidatious about being away from home.
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*
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2/7/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My 13 year old son attended the 10 day California. He has learning disabilities, it shy around others his age and it was his first experience at sleep away camp. He loved it and we immediately noticed how he grew in confidence during just that short time. He will be enrolling again next year for a longer camp and is looking forward to it The counselors were fabulous, I felt very comfortable that he was in good hands while he was away.
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*
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2/7/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I have twin boys who attended different sessions in NC 2010. Both had a fabulous time. They have mild ADHD. I sent them to SOAR thinking that the experience would teach them organizational skills, how to manage on their own and for one of them in particular I wanted him to gain confidence in himself. It was all that and more. They loved it! I would send them every year if I could afford it but here it is 7 months later and I am still paying (not complaining) it was worth every penny. The groups were small and there were kids with varying degrees of ADHD but the boys learned to rise up and be a leader if they needed to or just lay back and be a listener too. All kids aren't the same, some kids are dropped off by parents that can't be bothered but that I think it taught the boys to be empathetic to others. I flew home with one son. He talked the entire trip non stop and he is not a talker. I couldn't believe it. They both loved NC, the counselors and the activities. Thanks SOAR
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*
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2/7/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
SOAR changed my son's life (and thus ours, too).He's been for 5 summers, can't wait to go back. He's had the experience of success (which is elusive at school), bonded with the amazing staff. They have treated him like the treasure he is, caring and teaching and holding him to a high standard of behavior, giving him optimism about the future. A note about the cost: for our family, I'd take out a second mortgage to pay for SOAR if I had too. But know that if your child has an official diagnosis (from an MD or PhD), then the cost of SOAR, incl airfare is a legitimate medical expense, deductible on your federal taxes. Wish I could rate SOAR higher than 5, I am eternally grateful to the staff for giving my son his smile back, helping him grow through his disability.
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*
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2/7/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This camp is designed for ADD and ADHD kids. The "camp" can be in various parts of the US or in other countries. They set up the camp and staff so the campers have new and different experiences. The staff are highly experienced and the camper to staff ratio is very small. The philosophy is very positive and works to build self-esteem which many of these kids need! My daughter has attended several of these camps and always comes home feeling great about herself and makes new friends. I highly recommend this camp!
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2/7/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son has attended SOAR for two consecutive summers and upon return, each time, has determined where he'd like to go the next summer! He loved the activities of rock climbing and being outdoors in the mountains. The people, both staff and campers, are unforgetable.
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*
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4/15/10 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
SOAR has been a blessing for my ADD/LD son. He had never experienced social sucess at a summer camp prior to his session with SOAR. The staff totally understand the challenges these kids face and help them to focus on their strengths and abilities. My son came home with a new sense of self acceptance and much improved self esteem. Not only did he make some unanticipated "theraputic" progress he had a great time!! I highly recommend SOAR!
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11/20/09 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son has participated in their Fla Keys program for 2 yrs and just loved it. He loved the activities, the setting and the staff.These people are amazing to be able to provide such a wonderful experience for ADD/ADHD kids, it truly boosted his self-esteem and forced him to be more independent. He is looking forward to trying the WY experience next yr. Highly recommend!
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*
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11/19/09 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This camp is amazing!! My daughter has ADHD and Asperger's. She has EXTREME social anxiety and struggled to make friends. She had never been away from home. She never wanted to be out of our sight. She went to SOAR camp last summer for 12 days. Needless we were very apprehensive about leaving her. I cannot say enough about her experience there. The staff did an unbelievable job with her. She made friends and had a great time. She literally came back a new person. She carried alot of what she learned back with her. She had a new found confidence that was not there before. She gained skills that helped her socially as well as academically. She has been through counseling special schools etc., nothing helped her grow as much as her experience at SOAR camp. We can't wait to send her on her next adventure.
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*
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11/17/09 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son has been a participant with SOAR on various treks over the past 4 summers and I recommend this camp highly. The staff are extremely professional and they actually do what they say they will do. Every year my son comes home a changed boy!
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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1/24/09 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
4 |
My son went to the Wyoming camp and had a great time at camp even though he was very reluctant to go. He has Celiac Disease (no wheat, oats, barley or rye) and the camp was incredibly accommodating. The location is stunning and the counselors and staff are very skilled. They are not just college students looking for summer jobs, but students who are specifically interested in outdoor education, child psychology, and nursing--just right for a camping population it serves. If you have a preteen or teen who needs a little extra support but is not a "troubled teen", this camp is a good fit.
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12/11/08 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Adventure camps for ADHD teens. Locations in WY, NC, FL, and CA with different emphases in each location. My daughter went to Wyoming where they did horseback-riding, rock-climbing, hiking, and a bunch of other stuff which she thoroughly enjoyed. This location seemed to have more boys than girls; don't know about others. My daughter like all but one staff member whom she found disagreeable but not mean or abusive. Everything seemed to be very well supervised. They do a nice intake and outgoing process so you get a lot of feedback about how the time went and what your child learned, both socially and skill-wise.
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12/11/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
Very expensive but great for kids with ADD/ADHD--my 12 yr old son went to the academic WY camp last summer and absolutely loved it and came home with a great attitude. We very very impressed and pleased with the organization and wouldn't hesitate to send him again.
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8/20/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My 8 yr. old son just completed the Llama Trek program and it was a great experience! He was so excited to go to camp but the homesickness hit him immediately after I dropped him off. Apparently it was pretty bad for the first 2-3 days and he sent home 7 letters saying he wanted to come home. But the camp director called on day 6 to assure me he was much better now. By the end, he was as happy as ever. His first words were, "Next time I want to go back to the horseback program!". Kudos to his counselor who gave him lots of extra attention in the evenings when he was most homesick. He said he felt so much support from everyone, including the other kids. He came home feeling proud and accomplished, and his self esteem was at an all time high. I think he wants to wait until he's old enough to do some of the other programs, but he definitely wants to return!
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7/29/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Twice my daughter has attended a horsemanship camp at their WY Ranch. This particular program has a VERY small group. This year it was only 4 girls. She loved it and hopes to go back again.
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7/17/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My son has ADHD, but loves outdoor activies. This is the perfect place for him. This will be his third year. The first time he went, he had never been away from home without knowing anyone before and he was very reluctant to go. But he enjoyed himself and was very proud that he learned some cooking, climbed high despite fear of heights and made new friends.
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7/8/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Going to SOAR last summer was the best experience my son has had with a summer camp. He is going again this summer. He is 12 years old and has ADHD. The counselors at SOAR understood his needs because of their experience with these kids and because of the excellent intake survey they gave us before my son arrived at camp. It was the first time he felt like he belonged somewhere. Like he was part of a group. I think it did wonders for his self esteem. He loved the counselors and all the activities. They knew how to keep him busy which is important because he has an abundance of energy. He can't wait to get back there this summer.
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5/7/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
LIFE-CHANGING -AWESOME-EVERYTHING ABOUT IT IS GREAT-THE VARIETY OF LOCATIONS-STAFF-PROGRAMS-DIRECTORS-THEY JUST KNOW HOW TO CHANGE A LIFE IN SO MANY POSITIVE WAYS-
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*
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5/3/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
We traveled the world looking for a camp that would cater to our sons special needs(ADHD) nurture him and help him grow. We found it at SOAR. Now my son 16 wants to go back and train to be a counselor, and help other kids.
I highly recommend that any parent with a child that has been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD, send them to this camp, and be prepared to see them soar!
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4/30/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My daughter loved the camp. She came home with wonderful stories. She is going back again. The staff is great. They are kind and work with each camper. When I picked up my daughter they gave me a complete run down of the what she did,how she did, and areas she could work on. We love it.
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4/29/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This camp provided an amazing experience for my son. It focused on areas he was able to be sucessful in and gave him confidence in himself. The staff were well trained, attentive, and FUN. My son learned to work in a group without driving the group crazy. He came home with positive negotiating skills and a greater awareness of his behavior and actions. My son is excited to be going back and hopes to be with the same outstanding staff he was with last year. This camp is safe, clean, well equip, and has a beautiful facility in the most tranquil of settings.
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4/29/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son went last year and came back a different person. His Mom and I could really SEE a change. We are sending him back this year, not only because of the help he recieved, but because HE WANTS TO. He understands the value he has gotten, and wants more.
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4/29/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son (one of three) has been on 5 SOAR programs. He will attending 2 trips this summer. The staff is much more mature and experienced than other programs we have seen. I highly recommend the program for any child who has special needs.
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4/29/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
SOAR is the best camp my 10-year-old son has ever attended, in both his view and mine. This is his second year at SOAR. The facilities are perfect for the camp's purpose -- simplicity, community, and adequate observation by staff. The level of detail both during in-briefing and exit briefing is the most thorough I've seen. Kids are separated into age-appropriate groups and given lots of individual attention. My son learned self reliance, confidence, and how to handle challenges and frustrations, all in a safe environment. My son sometimes has problems with bullies at school and is quick to report them, and he reported no such problems at SOAR. Contrary to another post I saw on this site, my son was not sent to SOAR for the summer because his parents could not deal with him. He went for two weeks and came home with confidence and self-care skills that we could not possibly have given to him at home.
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4/29/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
Camp was wonderful for my son with ADHD. He came how with a feeling of accomplishment and a much higher self esteem than when he went. He made many wonderful friends and has tried two different courses - Llama and Horse - We recommend this camp to children that are mentally capable of handling being away from home and open to learning a new experience.
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*
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4/29/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
We love SOAR and so does our son. The pre- and post-briefings are excellent. The counselors really take the time to understand your child's special needs, and at the end report back on his/her progress. We were amazed at the difference in our son after just one summer. He did so many new things and was so proud of himself. Of course it was hard, but it really gave me a different level of confidence. He was scared to be away from home for the first time. But boy did he brag about all the stuff he did to his sister. She went to Rockbrook for girls which is a totally different camp where you stay in cabins, make crafts, ride horses, etc. He bragged that he did some 'real' camping. It was great to see him proud of something. For the money, it was well worth it to see his character and perspective change.
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*
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4/29/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son attended SOAR for the first time last year, and absolutely loved it. He has talked about his great experience all year, and cannot wait to go back again this summer. I think that the counselors are well trained and keep the kids safe, but you have to remember, this is a wilderness camp! This is very different from a traditional camp, and the kids will get dirty and not take showers while on the trail. They learn new skills, learn to truly rough it, and feel proud of themselves! My son had been camping many times and loved the experience of backpacking and sleeping out in the wilderness! The facilities are definitely rough, and although I would not enjoy it, my son says it's like his "second home!"
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4/29/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
SOAR provided an achievable experience for my daughter. She was able to participate in many activities that would have been difficult if she were in a typical camp setting.
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4/22/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
My child has ADHD and we sent them to SOAR last year (BAD CHOICE!!!). This is a horrible camp where parents drop off their kids for the summer because they don't want to deal with them themselves. My child came home with stories of the horrible rat infested cabins, disgusting food, smelly kids who refused to take showers, and staff who didn't know what they were doing. The people at SOAR made it sound like it was perfect for kids with ADHD when I called, but reality was just the opposite. They are so desperate for $$$ that they will accept anybody while charging HUGE FEES for a crappy camp. The people in the run-down mobile homes on the way the camp scared me on our way up the road to drop off our kid. Safety was a HUGE concern out there in the woods with people like that within walking distance to my kid.
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4/21/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My son has attended various Wyoming camps for the last 4 years and will attend his fifth this summer. Every year has been a better experience than the last in terms of the benefit he has experienced. The feedback we get from the staff is detailed and individualized. I would highly recommend the camp for kids that have ADHD issues and are willing to learn and work hard. Kids with really disruptive or violent behavior problems do not belong in this program.
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3/13/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I love this camp. And so does my daughter. If I could I would send her back this year. Unfortunately, I am having surgery next month and I can not afford to send her this year. I hope she could go next year. My daughter was very disappointed this year when I told her she could not go. She is going to need to get a job this year which I hope she could manage with the help she received from SOAR.
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3/13/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My name is Miles. I am a SOAR alumni! I have gone to SOAR 7 summers in a row and i will be going for the 8th time this summer! SOAR is a wonderful place for kids and teenagers to go!!! While at SOAR you will learn many skills that you cannot learn at home! I have had a blast at SOAR! The staff is awesome, the activities are awesome and the learning experience is awesome! So if you are looking for a fun place for your child to go and learn some responsibility skills then SOAR would be the PERFECT place!!!
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3/13/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
SOAR is terrific...My two (very different) sons attended various summer programs in Wyoming over several years and always had a terrific time. They learned a lot, were engaged physically, intellectually and emotionally, and always had a great experience. Becki Burnett, who runs the Wyoming Program, is smart and sentitive and caring--she couldn't be better! Her counsellors are first-rate and the adventures SOAR provide for the kids are just wonderful.
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3/13/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
We love the camp - have been 3 or 4 times. For children with ADHD, I don't think there is a better camp! The counselors sit down with parents before and after to set goals and review them one on one. The only drawback is the price - it is definitely an investment!
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3/13/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
A child with attention or learning disabilities is a challenge when it comes to school or any other program. A parent wants to give the child a positive experience where the child is appreciated and where a child with learning issues or attention issues can "be themselves". WOW is SOAR the place! I write as a parent of one such child and as a school counselor, past special education teacher. Briefly, SOAR changed my child's life....sounds dramatic? The encouragement, understanding, growth activities, fun, started my son on the road to success and gave him a love of the outdoors,a city child. As parents of children with challenges we need to have a place that accepts, treats our children as important and honored for their individual qualities and SOAR is the camp! As an aside, check out the semester program when your child is in high school! As a high school counselor in a public school, parent who tried the private school route with my child, SOAR, saved him. College next year!
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3/13/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My daughter attended SOAR 4 summers in a row (ages 12, 13, 14, and 15) and loved every minute of it. She always came back with a sense of pride and accomplishment and enhanced self-esteem. They certainly know what they are doing! I'm a single parent, and I could have easily used the tuition $$ for other things. However, I considered it an investment in my child and was never disappointed.
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3/12/08 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
My son went to SOAR for three consecutive summers and loved every minute of it. Daniel attended the SOAR NC Academic Discovery camp in Balsam in July. We were pleasantly surprised that he actually wanted to participate in a camp program that also included an academio component each of those three summers. He enjoyed reading the book assigned each summer, and he also learned over the three summers, how to organize himself better. The counselors were extremely nurturing when he needed it, firm when he needed it, and overall really helped build Dan's self-esteem. Each summer he came home a much more self-confident, proud boy, who began to have an understanding that everyone has difficult "stuff" to deal with. SOAR really was one of the most important things we did for Daniel during his difficult pre-adolescent middle school years. I would highly recommend the camp for children who like being outdoors,have an adventurous streak but who need more adult guidance than your average camp.
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3/12/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
My son has attended SOAR in Wyoming for the last three summers. Last summer he requisted to stay for two courses. He always seems safe and well taken care of. This is a place that he can go and feel normal. He seems to fit in, where this doesn't always happen at school. I think that the camp has helped him mature and socialize better. Probably my only complaint is that the staff needs to help the kids more when packing there things when returning home. Many times the kids get there things mixed up.
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3/12/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our son has attended Soar 5 years straight and will be back this summer. He had three years in the llama trek and the last two were horseback. It has proven to be a very positive experience for him.
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3/12/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
My boys have always had great experiences at SOAR. I notice in the growth in them when they return each year!
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8/10/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I had an amazing experience attending SOAR. The counselors knew our whole group, the hung out with us, and pushed us to new limits. Amaznig place for kids to begin to find themselves.
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1/18/07 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
Beware of "special" camps like SOAR. My son has ADHD. The other kids had ADHD PLUS some other clearly serious issues. The idea of a camp teaching kids responsibility and respect while they gained self-confidence sounded perfect for our son. In hindsight, I think SOAR is like some boarding schools where parents drop off their "problem child" and then drive away (quickly). My son came back home with stories of a kid who "confessed" to my son that he was the devil. Another kid told my son he was going to kill him while he was sleeping. Another one had a huge problem with the outdoor toilet deal and was forced to hike in shorts that were...umm..soiled because there was no where to wash. I know boys will be boys; however, my son came back home with filthy stories - He was only 11! Where were the counselors?! It leads me to suspect that the people at SOAR are so desperate for campers that they will accept anybody. Too bad.
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8/21/06 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
If your child has ad/hd or any other ld and he or she like to get to the outdoors then this is the camp for you it has the best counsolers and administration i have ever seen and the activeities were incredible. what was most comforting was these people were real out doors men not from june to august but all year round they know what they are doing whitch made me feel very comfortable.
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