When parents think about summer camps that welcome children with disabilities or chronic health conditions, they often assume the benefits flow in one direction. But the data tells a different story: environments where all children learn together transform every camper—and every family they return to.
At Melwood, we’ve spent years studying what happens when children with and without disabilities share summer camp experiences. Through our collaboration with Children’s National Hospital at Camp Accomplish, we’ve learned that this approach isn’t just good ethics—it’s good development.
What the data shows
Our 2025 camper survey reveals powerful results. Of 187 responses:
- 96% felt more accepted and included by their peers
- 97% learned how to get along with others in a group
- 95% learned to be a better friend and to look forward to trying new activities
- 93% learned to be better at making friends and to speak up and share their needs
- 92% learned they can be good at things they didn’t know they were good at
- 96% learned to feel good about things they do well
When children feel they truly belong, they’re free to take risks, try new things, and discover who they’re meant to become.
What parents should look for
If you’re considering summer camp options, look for these markers of quality programming:
Belonging as the baseline. Before growth happens, children must feel safe and accepted. Look for camps where acceptance isn’t just promised but measured.
Challenge for everyone. Supportive doesn’t mean lowered expectations. The best programs challenge every child to step outside their comfort zone with tailored support.
Real friendships. Watch for intentional relationship-building between children whose experiences differ. Are there opportunities for campers to learn about each other’s challenges, see one another’s strengths and share successes?
Self-advocacy skills. Children learning to understand and communicate their own needs gain a skill that serves them for life.
Why this matters
We’re raising a generation that will work and build community in increasingly varied environments. Children who learn early that their peers’ different experiences and abilities enrich relationships will go on to thrive as colleagues, neighbors, leaders, and friends.
Summer camp offers a unique space for this learning. Away from structured school environments, with time for unscripted play and genuine connection, children practice skills that will define their adult lives.
An invitation
At Camp Accomplish, located at the Melwood Recreation Center in Nanjemoy, Maryland, we put these principles into practice every summer for youth ages 5-18. From climbing walls to nature trails to therapeutic equestrian activities, campers explore and grow in an environment that welcomes everyone while encouraging each child to discover what they’re capable of.
For parents seeking an environment where acceptance is proven, where belonging is the foundation, and where children come home with muddy shoes, new friends, and hearts full of memories—we’d love to welcome your family.
Learn more at campaccomplish.org.
