CNY ASA is seeking to change the manner in which services are currently being provided to school age children with autism for their six week summer program. An inclusive pilot program was implemented for six individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in the summer of 2007 at the East Area Family YMCA. The children were supported with a special education teacher, teaching assistants, a speech therapist and one-on-one aides as required.  Staff were supported by consultants retained by CNY ASA to provide training on inclusive programming, to provide hands on support and to problem solve as specific issues arose.

For the summer of 2008, CNY ASA will implement this program at two different locations, expanding the geographic reach and providing more opportunities for families searching for appropriate summer options for their children.  The East Area Family YMCA has committed to a second year of the program at its Y Kids Camp, and the Jewish Community Center is partnering with CNY ASA to implement an inclusion program as part of its Camp Rishon.  CNY ASA has ongoing discussions with other area organizations to implement inclusive programs within their existing summer camps at additional sites for the 2009 summer. 

Each program will serve six to eight children with autism completing kindergarten through sixth grade.  A total of 15 children are currently enrolled for the summer of 2008.  All camp staff at each location will be provided training on working with children with autism and the implementation of an inclusive program.  CNY ASA will provide funding for the inclusion personnel at each location including special education teachers, teaching assistants, speech therapist and aides as required to meet the needs of the specific children.  Hands-on materials necessary to enhance the involvement of the children will also be provided.  In addition, CNY ASA will provide funding for team planning meetings to better enrich the quality of the program.

First priority for placement in the CNY ASA Inclusive Summer Recreation Program is given to paid members of CNY ASA.  However, should any openings become available after the initial selection process has been completed; consideration will be given to those who have a Waiting List Application on file.

For more information, please contact us at cnyasa@yahoo.com