Flint Hills Summer Fun Camp

Flint Hills Summer Camp was started in 2010 by parents and continues today as a way to provide a structured, fun summer experience for children with autism-spectrum disorders and peer models. Campers are divided into age groups (approximately 12 students per group) under the supervision of a certified teacher and paraprofessionals. The program is held at a USD 383 elementary school each June and July. To ensure full participation, we require campers to sign up for an entire month long session or the full summer.

Our goals: 

• Prevent cognitive regression over summer months
• Improve transition between school years
• Encourage socialization skills with same-aged peers
• Promote physical activity
• Provide a safe environment for students to work on individual goals, including academics, communication, gross and fine motor skills, self-esteem, and social skills

Programming

In addition to focusing on structured activities in the arts and physical activities, campers are also bussed for activities in the community and field trips. We often partner with other community organizations to accomplish our activities for the summer. Past partners have included Kansas State University, K-State Communication Sciences and Disorders, The First Tee of Manhattan, Beach Museum of Art, Hocus Focus Education, and others. 

Location

We will be located at Marlatt Elementary School for the summer of 2023. Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 and CDC guidelines/recommendations will be followed. Camp will happen as long as it is deemed safe and appropriate. We reserve the right to cancel/alter camp if needed due to COVID-19.

To reach us email Camp Director Ashley Eckelberry at ashleye@usd383.org.

Schedule

Tentatively, our schedule includes instruction in academics and the arts in the morning, and gross motor/physical activities in the afternoon.  Direct instruction in social skills and opportunities to practice those skills are provided throughout the day. 

Times

The camp runs daily Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 pm. Camp will be closed July 3rd/4th as well as that final Friday, July 22nd.

Eligibility

You do not need to be a student of USD 383 to participate. Students who are entering first through sixth grade are eligible. 

If your child has an IEP, we will require that it be sent with your application before your application will be considered complete. We will also want contact information for your current school year teacher to discuss the best placement option for your child. USD 383 students who are eligible for morning Extended School Year services (ESY) can often get those services at camp, at no cost to the parent (see your IEP case manager for more information). A special camp rate is available for ESY students who would like to participate in the afternoon after their morning ESY services are complete. 

If your child requires individualized paraprofessional support during the school year, your child may need to have that level of support to be successful at our camp. The camp's budget does not allow for one-on-one paraprofessionals for every child. Parents may have to assist with the cost of such support. We will discuss options with you and make every effort to ensure your child has a positive experience. 

For more detailed information about the registration process and fee structure please visit the Application & Tuition page. 

Acceptance notifications will be made periodically throughout the spring as applications are reviewed.  We encourage families to apply early!