James Feller loves to be active outside. The 18-year-old, who has been coming to Camp Royall since 2014, especially enjoys hiking the camp’s trails. “I even gave him the Phenomenal Pathfinder Award because he showed me new paths to explore camp and have fun,” said his summer camp counselor, Karla Yamilette Morel. James was always…
Making Best Friends at Camp Royall
Kellington Morrisey found his best friend at Camp Royall this summer. The 11-year-old arrived for his first week ever somewhat nervous and talking low, his counselor said. But then he was introduced to Khalil, and within minutes, the boys were off walking and talking about Ninjago, their favorite show. “I feel like Kellington and Khalil…
What Could Supreme Court Decision Mean for Your Child?
The beginning of the new school year is a good time to consider how you can make sure your child receives a quality education designed to help them meet challenging goals. Disability advocates across the nation are hopeful that the Supreme Court’s decision in Endrew F. v. Douglas County School District will bring changes that…
Easing the Transition Back to School
It’s that time of year again…back to school we go! The transition from summer to fall, more specifically from summer break to the start of the school year, can be overwhelming for everyone involved. The added stressors of back-to-school shopping, meet-and-greets with teachers, and transitioning into new schools can be challenging. We have some tips…
It Just Feels Good!
Human behavior is complex, no doubt. There are often layers to the reasons why people behave the way they do and those reasons may fluctuate from day-to-day based on a variety of internal or external events. Everyone engages in some behaviors (e.g., scratching a mosquito bite) just because they feel good. That is, the behavior…
How Behavior Can Go the Way of the Dinosaurs
Extinction is what happened to the dinosaurs, the saber-toothed tiger, and the dodo bird. But did you know behavior can undergo extinction as well? Don’t worry, behavioral extinction does not involve a massive comet colliding with the Earth. Behavior is said to undergo extinction when it simply no longer produces the reinforcement it once did….
5 Tips for Finding Activities for Your Child
When my son with autism was in elementary school, I remember wanting to get him involved in “programs” and “activities” but not really knowing what was appropriate or how to proceed. I recall contacting tons of people and agencies and asking for “THE” programs and activities specific for a child with autism. Frequently when the…