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Back-to-school season can bring excitement, but for children with autism, sensory processing challenges, or intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), it can also bring anxiety and uncertainty. The right tools can make a world of difference.In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of essential back-to-school supplies designed to support different learning styles and sensory needs. These adaptive tools can help improve focus, increase comfort, and promote independence in the classroom.

Essential Back-to-School Supplies

1. Adaptive Backpacks for Special Needs

Adaptive backpacks are specially designed for children with physical or developmental disabilities. Look for features like:

There’s a good reason for the growth of Self-Directed Care (SDC), like
California’s Self Determination Program. They let you choose the services you want, who provides them, and when.

Every state requires participants to engage a Financial Management Services (FMS) provider to help with many aspects of the program, but not all FMS providers are created equal, and your SDC experience can be greatly affected by your choice.California, for instance, lets you choose between 28 state-approved FMS providers, each promising comprehensive support. How do you begin to decide which one will best serve your needs? Well, it turns out it’s not that hard. Here are eight things to look out for before making a decision.

1. Flexible Enrollment

You want to get started on your SDC journey as soon as possible. Some providers require you to already have a budget plan, leaving you to figure out the (often confusing) enrollment process alone. Others want to put you on a waitlist before you can get going.

You’ll want to look for:

• Any-Stage Enrollment: Providers should welcome you wherever you are in your journey—whether you’re just investigating your options, already have a spending plan draft, or are already enrolled.
• No Waitlists: You want onboarding to start as happen as possible, so you can start receiving services without unnecessary delays. Why should an FMS’s limitations become your problem?

2. Dedicated, One-on-One Support

Many aspects of self-directed care can be confusing (figuring out eligibility, understanding your budget, hiring and managing your employee…). You want to keep the ball rolling—and stay within the program rules.

Personalized support dramatically improves your experience. You’ll want an FMS who provides:

• Dedicated Case Managers: Your FMS should assign you a single, knowledgeable support specialist; someone who’ll get to know you personally, understand your situation and needs, and won’t require you to rehash an issue to a new person every time you reach out.
• Reasonable Response Times: Look for a commitment to addressing your issues promptly, ideally within no more than 72 hours.

3. Great Technology & User Experience

Digital tools can really simplify a lot of the administrative tasks that are required in the program rules. In extreme cases, failing to stay compliant could make you ineligible for the program, and you could be removed.

So, it’s important to have tools that support compliance, but it’s also important that they are full-featured and easy to use.

You should expect:

• A Participant Portal: You want all your tools in one place, accessible from anywhere, 24 hours a day. You should be able to:
  • track your spending against your budget in real-time
  • enter, approve, and submit worker timesheets and invoices
  • allow documentation upload
  • submit purchase requests
• Detailed Reporting: The ability to quickly create easy-to-read reports will help you to see where you might want to adjust your budget, spot any spending red flags, and stay compliant with program rules.

4. Transparent, Flexible Cost Structure

“Employer burden” is just a wordy way of talking about the costs you incur by being your worker’s employer. It includes things like:

• Workers’ compensation insurance
• Unemployment insurance
• Payroll taxes (FICA, FUTA, SUTA)
• Employer portion of Medicare
• Payroll processing fees
• Background checks and employment verification
• State disability insurance (in CA, NY, NJ, RI, HI, PR)

These costs come straight out of your budget, so you definitely want to know exactly what you’re paying, and get the best price possible.

At a minimum, you want to see:

• Clearly Defined Fees: Providers should openly and clearly tell you what you’ll pay for their services and all the items listed above.
• No Budget Caps: The FMS has to pay your service costs upfront, before the state reimburses them. Because of this, some don’t want to work with participants with large monthly budgets, to limit their financial risk. You should look for a provider who’ll partner with you regardless of your budget.

5. Flexible Fees for Family Caregivers

Compared to caregivers hired from the general public, its costs the FMS less to provide services when the caregiver is a close family member. A close relative likely already knows the participant’s needs and routine, so there’s less orientation and training to get them up to speed. They are less likely to leave, so turnover and retraining costs are lower; there’s less chance of compliance or HR issues because the caregiver is invested in the well-being of their loved one.

Additionally, in states like California, certain family members (in specific situations) may be exempt from some of the employer burden items, like social security and Medicare taxes, worker’s comp insurance, or FICA.

If you are planning on hiring an immediate family member, you should check that your FMS offers:

• Reduced Family-Caregiver Rates: Some California FMS providers charge overhead rates as high as 24.86%—and don’t reduce it when the caregiver is a close relative. Others will significantly lower their rates, down in the 5% area. That difference can be substantial, and in many cases means more of your budget can be spent on care instead of overhead.

6. Language & Cultural Competence

If you have questions and English isn’t your first language, the last thing you need is to be struggling to understand complex, unfamiliar terms. The best FMS providers recognize this, and offer:

• Full Bilingual Capability in English & Spanish): All support, documentation, and training should be available in both languages.
• On-Demand Professional Translation: If you speak a language other than English or Spanish, your provider should be able to provide real-time human translation services for any other language.

7. Comprehensive Training & Education

When you enroll (and after), there’s a lot to learn. Any good FMS will offer high quality education to smooth the journey for both you and your caregiver.

• Initial Training: Your personalized one-on-one enrollment plan includes interactive workshops to make sure you understand essential management skills, budgeting, compliance, and how to handle issues that may arise.
• Ongoing Training: Program rules can change, and there’s always more to learn. Regularly updated educational materials and webinars make sure you always have the most current information at hand.

8. Community Engagement & Thought Leadership

The best FMS providers are passionate about self-directed care, and you can gauge this by how actively they engage with the SDC community. It’s a good sign if the FMS shows:

• Active Industry Involvement: Staff regularly participating in policy forums, serving on industry panels, and community workshops are all good signs.
• Peer-Networking Assistance: Helping participants and caregivers to interact and learn from each other through meetups and support groups shows genuine care about the people they serve.

Conclusion

Choosing an FMS is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your self-directed care journey. The right one can keep things moving, make the rules easier to follow, and help you avoid unnecessary stress. The wrong one can make you wonder if SDC is worth the hassle.

Look for a provider that’s easy to work with, explains things clearly, helps you from the very beginning (and at every step), and doesn’t nickel-and-dime you on fees—especially if you’re hiring a family member. A good FMS should speak your language (literally), train you well, and stay involved in the SDC community.

It’s your program, your budget, your care. Make sure your FMS is really on your team.

To learn more about PPL’s role as an FMS within California Self-Determination program visit our Website.

Many California beaches also serve as ideal destinations for individuals with sensory sensitivities or developmental disabilities.Here are a few ways to create a sensory-friendly beach day:

• Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter atmosphere
• Choose beaches with calmer waters and less foot traffic
• Bring a sensory kit (e.g., noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget tools)
• Use beach wheelchairs and access mats for smoother navigation and comfort

For families seeking autism-friendly beach trips or low-sensory environments, these small preparations can make a big difference.

Top Accessible Beaches in California

Looking for a beach that offers the best in accessibility and inclusion? Here are some of the most wheelchair-friendly and sensory-considerate beaches in California:

• Santa Monica State Beach – MobiMats, beach wheelchairs, accessible restrooms
• Mission Beach (San Diego) – Wide boardwalk, rentals, sensory-friendly vibe
• Venice Beach – Beach wheelchair access, ADA restrooms
• Zuma Beach (Malibu) – Ample parking, access mats, inclusive features
• Granada Beach (Long Beach) – Known for its accessibility and quiet setting
• Silver Strand State Beach – Paved walkways, calm environment
• Clam Beach (Humboldt County) – Remote and peaceful for low-sensory trips
• Manhattan Beach – Wheelchair access and adaptive surf programs

Plan Your Inclusive Beach Day with Path-Now

From adaptive equipment rentals to sensory support strategies, California’s accessible beaches offer fun and relaxation for everyone—regardless of ability.

By creating a free profile on Path-Now, you can access:

• Thousands of trusted California disability providers
• Up-to-date information on inclusive recreational activities
• Easy connections to developmental disability services and local advocacy groups

Discover inclusive beach adventures and find the support your family needs—only at Path-Now.

Starting a new school year can be challenging for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A sensory-friendly school routine can reduce stress, improve daily transitions, and promote independence. By establishing a predictable, supportive morning schedule, children can feel more confident and in control—leading to better outcomes both at home and in the classroom.

At Path-Now, we connect families with the best intellectual disability support services and special needs resources in California, making it easier to access the help your child needs.

Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Sensory-Friendly School Routine

1. Build a Visual Routine Board

Children who benefit from special education support often thrive on structure and predictability. A visual routine board can help outline the steps of the morning, school day, and even the after-school schedule.

To create an effective board:

• Use a mix of pictures and simple words.
• Include steps like brushing teeth, getting dressed, and packing their school bag.
• Add visuals for transportation and after-school activities.
• Place the board at your child’s eye level to promote independence.

Including sensory breaks—such as stretching, jumping, or calming activities—can help regulate your child’s sensory input and reduce meltdowns.

2. Gradually Transition Into the School Routine

Sudden changes can be overwhelming, especially for children with sensory processing challenges. Ease your child into the school routine by:

• Shifting bedtime and wake-up times gradually (e.g., 15 minutes earlier each day over two weeks).
• Practicing the morning routine together several times before school starts.
• Doing a walkthrough or drive-by of the school route to build familiarity and reduce anxiety.

These small steps can have a big impact on helping your child feel safe and prepared.

3. Prepare a Personal Sensory Pack

A sensory-friendly classroom isn’t always guaranteed, but having a school sensory pack can give your child tools to manage sensory overload throughout the day. Make sure to check with the teacher or school staff on which items are permitted.

Consider including:

• Noise-cancelling headphones to block out loud sounds
• Fidget toys or stress balls for self-regulation
• Sunglasses for bright or visually stimulating environments
• A compression vest for calming deep pressure input

A personalized sensory pack empowers your child to cope with school stress in a healthy, proactive way.

Support for Children with Disabilities in California

Returning to school can feel overwhelming, but with the right sensory tools and consistent routines, your child can experience a smoother transition and a more enjoyable school year.

At Path-Now, we make it easy for families to connect with developmental disability services and disability advocacy groups in California. Whether you’re looking for therapy providers, special education resources, or peer support, our platform helps you find what your child needs—all in one accessible place.

1. Use Accessibility Filters on Booking Platforms

Start by searching on popular platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Expedia and use their accessibility filters. These filters can help you quickly narrow down your choices based on:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and rooms
• Step-free access
• Roll-in showers with grab bars
• Visual and auditory assistance
• Ground-floor accommodations

Pro Tip: Even after applying filters, always contact the host or hotel directly to confirm the information is accurate and up to date.

 

2. Contact the Property Directly for Clarification

One of the best ways to ensure a property is fully accessible is to speak with staff or hosts before booking. Prepare a checklist of your needs to guide the conversation. Key questions might include:

• Are the entrances, hallways, and elevators wheelchair-friendly?
• Are there walk-in or roll-in showers with grab bars?
• Is there an emergency alert system in place for guests with disabilities?
• Do they offer hoists, transfer benches, or shower chairs?

Speaking directly to the accommodation provider can give you peace of mind and help you avoid unexpected issues during your stay.

3. Ask About Staff Disability Awareness and Training

Inclusive hospitality isn’t just about physical accessibility—it’s also about attitude and understanding. Ask if staff have undergone disability awareness or accessibility training. Well-trained, respectful staff can make all the difference in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for guests with disabilities.

4. Research the Surrounding Area

Your hotel or Airbnb may be accessible—but what about the local area? When researching, consider:

• Proximity to accessible public transportation
• Availability of accessible tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants
• Whether the neighborhood is quiet or high-traffic, depending on your sensory needs
• Access to healthcare facilities or pharmacies, just in case

Choose accommodations located in areas that suit your mobility, sensory, and daily living needs for a smoother travel experience.

5. Read Reviews from Other Travelers with Disabilities

Before booking, check online reviews—especially those written by other travelers with disabilities. Firsthand experiences can highlight accessibility strengths or potential challenges that aren’t mentioned in official listings.

Look for reviews that mention:

• Accessibility of rooms and bathrooms
• Attitude and helpfulness of staff
• Nearby transportation or attractions
• Overall comfort and safety

These insights can help you make a more informed decision and avoid surprises.

Plan a Stress-Free Stay with Path-Now

Booking accessible accommodation can feel overwhelming—but with the right tools and preparation, you can find a stay that is safe, inclusive, and comfortable for everyone in your group.

At Path-Now, we support families and individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities by connecting them to trusted service providers across California. Whether you need help finding inclusive travel options or ongoing disability support, our platform is here to make the process easier.

If you’re looking for more independence, flexibility, and control in how your disability services are provided, the Self-Determination Program (SDP) in California could be the answer.

What Is the Self-Determination Program?

The Self-Determination Program (SDP) is a statewide initiative in California that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities by giving them control over an individualized budget. This budget can be used to purchase the support and services that best match your goals, needs, and lifestyle—offering an alternative to traditional Regional Center services.

Through the SDP, individuals (and their families) work to develop a person-centered plan, which outlines personal goals, values, and the supports required to achieve them. The result? Greater flexibility, broader access to services, and a more customized path to independent living.

At Path-Now, we offer a robust directory of organizations and providers across California—many of which accept SDP funding. This makes it easier for you to explore programs that align with your unique needs and preferences.

The Role of an Independent Facilitator

To get the most out of your Self-Determination Program, many participants choose to work with an Independent Facilitator (IF). This person helps you create a thoughtful, well-structured spending plan that aligns with your personal goals while staying within budget.

Your Independent Facilitator can guide you through the planning process, connect you with appropriate services, and ensure your supports are working effectively for you.

With Path-Now, you can quickly find providers and programs that fit your budget, support goals, and vision for the future—whether or not you choose to work with an IF.

Benefits of the Self-Determination Program

Here’s how the SDP can improve your support experience:

• Personalized Support

SDP participants can design their own plans, tailoring services and programs to meet their specific needs. This leads to more effective, targeted care and encourages self-advocacy and independence.

• More Control and Choice

With SDP, you decide how your funds are spent. This provides greater flexibility in selecting services, choosing providers, and making changes as your needs evolve.

• Meaningful Life Improvements

Many individuals in the SDP experience better outcomes in areas such as employment, independent living, education, and community involvement—because the program is designed around what truly matters to you.

Take the Next Step with Path-Now

The Self-Determination Program is a powerful tool to help you live the life you want—with the supports you choose.\

At Path-Now, we make it easy to find qualified providers, local programs, and disability services that accept SDP funding. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to build a complete support plan, we’re here to help.

Create your free profile today and take control of your support journey.

For individuals with developmental disabilities, finding the right support is essential—but far too often, it’s also unnecessarily difficult. Navigating California’s complex network of disability services can be overwhelming, frustrating, and time-consuming. That’s where Path-Now comes in.

At Path-Now, we believe access to the right services should be straightforward and inclusive. Our platform connects individuals and families with thousands of verified providers and organizations across California, making it easier than ever to find the support that truly fits your needs.

Common Challenges in Disability Services

Despite the growing awareness of disability rights and inclusion, there are still major barriers preventing people from accessing the care and services they need. These include:

1. Limited Funding and Access

Many disability service providers operate with restricted budgets, leading to long waitlists, limited availability, and even service rationing. Income-based eligibility requirements can also force individuals to choose between working and maintaining access to critical support.

At Path-Now, we help bridge this gap by making it easy to discover available and accessible support options in your local area—no matter your situation.

2. Complicated Application Processes

Navigating the application process for disability services can be daunting. Forms are often lengthy, confusing, and require extensive documentation—barriers that disproportionately affect those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. What’s worse, clear guidance and support through these processes is often lacking.

Path-Now simplifies this experience by offering an intuitive, user-friendly platform where users can explore all available options in one place, with clear, accessible information at every step.

3. Lack of Inclusive and Comprehensive Services

Not all disability services are equipped to meet the diverse needs of individuals with various intellectual and developmental disabilities. Mental health services, in particular, are often inaccessible. Additionally, proving eligibility for certain conditions can be difficult, which further limits access to appropriate care.

This lack of inclusivity creates major gaps in the system—and is one of the driving reasons why we built Path-Now.

How Path-Now Helps

The current system isn’t working for everyone—and we’re here to change that.

With Path-Now, you can:

• Create a free profile
• Match with local service providers based on your unique needs
• Access thousands of verified resources in one centralized location

Our goal is to remove the confusion, delay, and stress from finding disability support—making it easier to connect with the care and services you deserve.

When it comes to choosing the right college, parents are often overwhelmed by glossy brochures, school rankings, and admissions representatives. But if you’re raising a neurodivergent learner, you know the decision goes far deeper than test scores or acceptance rates. At MRM Education, we believe it’s not about the prestige of a school, it’s about how well a school supports your child’s unique learning needs, strengths, and future.

In this post, we’re diving into how to evaluate a college through a neuroinclusive lens. We’ll go beyond reputation and help you explore what really matters: the right fit, the right support, and the right mindset for your child.

1. Redefining What “Good School” Means

Before diving into your search, pause and ask yourself: What does a good school mean for my child?

Traditional school rankings can be tricky. They tend to prioritize traditional academic and cultural metrics. While these metrics have value, they don’t tell the whole story, especially if your child is autistic, has ADHD, struggles with executive functioning, or is navigating school as a culturally marginalized student. So what qualities does a ‘good school’ have?

A truly “good” school is one where your child is:

• Understood for who they are
• Supported in how they learn
• Encouraged to express themselves
• Not just included, but valued

Start by writing down what your child needs emotionally, socially, and academically. Now search for schools with this list in mind. It will be your compass and your north star as you decide which schools are best.

Pro Tip: Schools must pay to promote themselves via popular rankings lists. This means that many great options get overlooked.

2. Dig Into Their Support Services and Their Culture

Not all support programs are created equal. Two schools may have a “learning center,” but one might be a dynamic hub with tailored plans and one-on-one coaching, while the other just provides occasional test accommodations.

Every school will say they’re inclusive, but how can you really know? Inclusion isn’t just about having a special education department. True inclusion shows up in daily interactions, classroom setups, teaching styles, and leadership decisions.

When evaluating a school, ask:

• What academic accommodations are available—and how easy is it to access them?
• Ask to speak to the learning specialist or DSP counselor.
• Does the school offer executive functioning coaching, mental health counseling, or social-emotional learning?
• How does the school create or implement 504 Plans? Do families have a real seat at the table?
• Does the school use strength-based, people-first language?
• Do faculty and leadership reflect the diversity of the student body? Do students see themselves in the curriculum and classroom materials?

If possible, ask to sit in on a class or two. You can learn a lot by observing how students and faculty interact in real time.

Pro Tip: You want a school that sees inclusion as a value, not as a burden or check box. So seek out schools that practice active inclusion – these are the schools that are more likely to foster your child’s confidence and growth.

3. Talk to Other Families

One of the most powerful insights comes from families already walking the path. Reach out to parent groups, neurodivergent family networks, or multicultural community spaces to find families whose children attend the schools you’re considering.

Ask them:

• What has the real experience been like for your child?
• How responsive is the school when challenges arise?
• Would you choose the same school again?

Often, it’s these informal conversations that provide the clearest picture of a school’s true climate.

4. Trust Your Gut and Your Child’s

Never underestimate the power of intuition. The single most effective metric of success for a student choosing a school is “it just felt right.” If something feels off during a school visit, investigate. If your child lights up in one environment and shuts down in another, take note.

The right school doesn’t have to be perfect. No school will check every box. That’s okay. What matters most is finding a place where your child feels seen, safe, and supported. A school that’s willing to listen, learn, and grow with your family is worth far more than one with a high ranking but no real understanding of neurodiverse needs.

At MRM Education, our philosophy is that the best education is rooted in empathy and belonging. When you choose a school that honors who your child is, not who the system expects them to be, you’re setting them up for a future full of confidence and possibility.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a school is a big decision, especially when your child doesn’t fit into a traditional mold. But by asking the right questions, observing the school environment, and listening to your child’s needs and desires, you can find a space that nurtures both their potential and their humanity.

If you’re looking for more guidance or one-on-one support in navigating school choices for your neurodivergent or diverse learner, MRM Education is here to help. We offer personalized coaching, educational consulting, executive functioning coaching and advocacy to ensure your child has the tools and the team to thrive.

Visit MRM Education to learn more or schedule a consultation.

Because every child deserves a school that sees them clearly and supports them completely.

Meet the Authors:

Matt McGee is the founder of MRM Education and has worked as a college admissions specialist for the past 15 years, helping students gain entry into their “best-fit” college. He specializes in supporting neurodiverse students, student athletes and high achieving students.

Natasha M. Nurse, Esq. is the Managing Director, Partnerships & Business Operations at MRM Education. As a Neurodivergent parent, she leads efforts to build meaningful partnerships and foster strong community engagement.Through collaborative initiatives, innovative programming, and purposeful communication, Natasha helps strengthen connections between educators, families, and communities. Her passion for learning and authentic relationship-building fuels her mission to make education more equitable and impactful for all.

A social recreation program is an inclusive and supportive service that offers structured activities designed to encourage social development, promote independence, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals with and without disabilities. These programs play a vital role in helping individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) by fostering social interaction, building self-confidence, and creating a sense of belonging in a community setting.If you’re looking for the right social recreation program in your area, Path-Now provides access to thousands of trusted service providers across California, making it easy to find a program that matches your or your loved one’s specific needs and goals.

1. Builds Confidence

Social recreation programs empower individuals by offering diverse activities that promote inclusion, creativity, and participation. Whether it’s art, sports, drama, or outdoor play, these experiences help participants gain confidence in their abilities and feel valued in a safe, supportive environment.

Path-Now helps make this journey easier by matching clients with the right services near them. By using the platform, families and individuals can quickly locate recreation programs designed to encourage self-expression and confidence-building — all tailored to your unique profile.

2. Improves Social Skills and Development

Developing social skills is a critical component of many social recreation programs. These programs encourage teamwork, communication, and interaction through group activities that help participants understand social cues and foster relationships.

With Path-Now, you don’t have to navigate this alone. The platform uses the information you provide — including your diagnosis, treatment goals, and personal preferences — to recommend the most suitable social recreation programs in California. Whether you’re looking for group-based or one-on-one settings, Path-Now ensures your social development journey is supported from the start.

3. Personalized Support

One of the biggest advantages of high-quality social recreation programs is the personalized care they offer. Programs often include adaptive physical activities to enhance coordination and strength, as well as mental challenges like puzzles and games to support cognitive development. Many also feature music, art, and drama therapy — all of which are beneficial for reducing anxiety, building focus, and nurturing creativity.

Path-Now makes it easy to discover programs that align with your interests and therapeutic goals. Whether you’re looking for a sensory-friendly environment, specialized therapy services, or simply a fun and inclusive space to connect with others, Path-Now connects you to providers who understand and meet your individual needs.

Why Join a Social Recreation Program?

Getting involved in a social recreation program is a great way to build confidence, improve social skills, and find joy through structured, inclusive activities. From outdoor adventures to calming sensory rooms, these programs are thoughtfully designed to support the emotional and developmental needs of people with disabilities — all while making them feel part of a welcoming community.

And the best part? Path-Now makes the search simple and effective. By centralizing resources and provider information in one accessible platform, Path-Now empowers individuals and families across California to find IDD community services, therapy options, and recreational opportunities that are right around the corner.

Start Your Search with Path-Now

If you’re ready to find a local program that meets your unique needs, visit Path-Now today. Browse through a wide selection of social recreation programs and disability support services — all designed to help you or your loved one live a more connected and fulfilling life.

👉 Explore trusted providers and start your journey at path-now.com.

A summer camp for young people with disabilities is a great idea but it may be daunting trying to find the right one for individual needs. A summer camp is designed to make the guests feel welcome and safe in an enriching environment where amazing memories are made. Path-Now advertises an array of summer camps and services to help you find the most suitable one nearby.

The best summer camps in California provide an inclusive space for all and individualized, one on one therapy to ensure those with a developmental disability or intellectual disability are cared for while also having the best time. Here are 4 of the best summer camps in California:

1. Easterseals Southern California

Located at YMCA Camp Oakes in Big Bear, Easterseals camp is fully accredited through the American Camp Association and promises a standout camp experience for people with disabilities and exciting activities available for everyone.

Easterseals is a week-long camp filled with activities including crafts, swimming, dances, hiking, archery and a high and low ropes course. The minimum age is 14 and campers must have some communication skills. There is a counselor to camper ratio of 1:1 or 1:2 for more personalised support.

2. Camp Paivika

AbilityFirst Camp Paivika is situated in San Bernadino National Forest and offers summer overnight camps to both children and adults with disabilities including autism, Down Syndrome and ADHD. Campers will be sure to receive a traditional camp experience filled with fun and support.

Campers can try new things, make friends and activities are focused on building confidence and independence. Summer camp activities include swimming, adaptive sports such as baseball, bowling, an obstacle course and performing arts to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.

3. RAD Camp

RAD Camp stands for Rising Above Disabilities and is held at Van Guard University, Costa Mesa. This summer camp offers a week long program for both adults 22+ and children and young adults aged 5-21 (RAD Jr Camp) and lots of fun. The camper to counselor ratio is 1:1 to enhance a connection and friendship for an amazing camp experience.

Activities at RAD Camp include games, art, music, science and lots more as well as evening events of karaoke, dances and talent shows. Campers are well and truly cared for and will surely have the time of their life at RAD with memories to last a lifetime.

4. Camp I CAN

Located in two locations, San Diego and Carlsbad, Camp I CAN (Camp Including Children with Autism NOW) is operated by the Autism Society of San Diego in partnership with YMCA to ensure campers receive a fun camp experience that encourages social development.

This is a day camp for children aged 6-17 with ASD with various activities designed to target individual ability levels. Counselor to camper ratio is also 1:1 to offer tailored support and an exciting experience.

There are many inclusive summer camps in California that are specially designed to encourage people with disabilities to have fun with specialized activities tailored to individual needs. Explore the range of summer camps available to find the right one for your special needs.

Path-Now provides clients with a wide range of resources and IDD community services to ensure you can easily find the right disability support in California for your needs. Check out the list of summer camps available right here https://path-now.com/clients/.

Best Summer Camps in California for Individuals with Autism or Developmental Disabilities

Finding the right summer camp for a young person with autism or a developmental disability can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. A great summer camp should offer a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment where kids and adults alike can make memories, build friendships, and grow in confidence.

Path-Now is your go-to platform for discovering disability resources across California — including a curated selection of summer camps tailored to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Whether you’re looking for overnight camps, therapy-based programs, or inclusive day camps, Path-Now helps connect you with the right options nearby.

Here are four of the best summer camps in California for individuals with autism or developmental disabilities:

1. Easterseals Southern California

Located at YMCA Camp Oakes in Big Bear, the Easterseals summer camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and promises a standout experience for people with disabilities. This week-long overnight camp offers a mix of classic outdoor activities including crafts, hiking, archery, dances, and swimming.

• Age: 14+
• Ratio: 1:1 or 1:2 counselor to camper
• Notable Features: High and low ropes courses, personalized care, accessible programming

You can discover more camps like Easterseals through Path-Now, which allows you to browse by location, age group, and level of support needed.

2. Camp Paivika

Set in the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest, AbilityFirst Camp Paivika offers overnight camps for children and adults with disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, and ADHD. The camp experience is focused on fun, independence, and building confidence in a welcoming, supportive setting.

• Activities: Adaptive sports, swimming, performing arts, obstacle courses
• Support: Trained staff provide individualized care and attention
• Inclusion: Campers are encouraged to try new things and make meaningful connections

Not sure if Camp Paivika is the right fit? Path-Now makes it easy to compare multiple options based on your child’s unique needs and preferences.

3. RAD Camp (Rising Above Disabilities)

Held at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, RAD Camp creates an unforgettable experience for individuals with disabilities, offering separate sessions for kids (ages 5–21) and adults (ages 22+). With a 1:1 counselor-to-camper ratio, every camper receives personal attention and care.

• Activities: Science, games, music, arts, karaoke, dances, talent shows
• Highlights: Strong emphasis on friendship and connection
• Duration Features:One week

If you’re searching for a camp with a deep sense of community and fun-filled programming, Path-Now can help you explore RAD Camp and other similar options across California.

4. Camp I CAN

Short for Including Children with Autism NOW, Camp I CAN operates in San Diego and Carlsbad and is run by the Autism Society of San Diego in partnership with the YMCA. This day camp supports children ages 6–17 with ASD and offers a wide range of engaging activities that foster social development.

• Format: Day camp
• Ratio: 1:1 camper support
• Activities: Structured to match individual ability levels

Through Path-Now, you can view all the details about Camp I CAN and find other autism-focused programs close to your community.

Find the Right Camp with Path-Now

There are many inclusive summer camps throughout California designed to support children and adults with autism or developmental disabilities. Whether you’re seeking a traditional camp experience, targeted therapies, or opportunities for social interaction, the right camp is out there — and Path-Now can help you find it.

Path-Now connects individuals and families to a wide network of disability services and community resources across California, including summer camps, recreational programs, therapy options, and more. Browse their client portal to find the ideal summer experience tailored to your or your loved one’s needs.

👉 Discover the full list of summer camps and services now at path-now.com