Welcome to Charis Hills Camp, where an unforgettable experience awaits! Located in the scenic countryside, our camp offers a unique opportunity for children and teenagers with special needs to thrive, grow, and create lifelong memories. With a focus on inclusion, personal growth, and fun, our dedicated team of staff and volunteers is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for campers to explore their potential.
At Charis Hills Camp, we believe that every child deserves a chance to experience the joys of summer camp. Our tailored programs cater to campers with a wide range of special needs, including but not limited to autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Through a variety of engaging activities and enriching experiences, we aim to empower campers, boost their self-confidence, and foster social connections that last a lifetime.
Adventure Awaits: Outdoor Exploration
Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures surrounded by the beauty of nature. Our campgrounds are nestled amidst rolling hills, serene lakes, and towering trees, providing the perfect backdrop for exploration and discovery. With miles of scenic trails to explore, campers will have the opportunity to hike, bike, and observe the wonders of the natural world. Led by experienced guides, our outdoor excursions promote physical fitness, develop resilience, and encourage teamwork.
Discover the Wilderness: Hiking and Nature Walks
Strap on your hiking boots and get ready to immerse yourself in the wilderness. Our camp offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Whether it’s a leisurely nature walk or a challenging trek up a rugged mountain path, campers will have the chance to connect with nature, observe wildlife, and learn about the environment. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights about the flora and fauna, making every hike a learning adventure.
Conquer New Heights: Climbing and Ropes Courses
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, our climbing and ropes courses provide an exhilarating challenge. Campers will learn essential climbing techniques, conquer towering walls, and navigate through high ropes obstacles. Under the guidance of trained instructors, campers will develop confidence, problem-solving skills, and a sense of achievement as they reach new heights. Our courses are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that every camper can participate and experience the thrill of overcoming obstacles.
Wet and Wild: Water Activities
Beat the summer heat with our exciting water activities. Whether it’s swimming, canoeing, or paddleboarding, our campers will have a splashing good time in our pristine lakes and pools. Campers will learn water safety skills, improve their swimming abilities, and engage in friendly competitions. With certified lifeguards on duty, parents can rest assured that their child’s safety is our top priority. Our water activities promote physical fitness, build water confidence, and provide a refreshing escape from the Texas heat.
Unleashing Creativity: Arts and Crafts
Unleash your imagination and tap into your artistic side with our exciting arts and crafts sessions. Our dedicated art instructors provide a supportive environment where campers can freely express themselves and explore various mediums. From painting to pottery, tie-dye to jewelry making, our campers have the opportunity to create unique masterpieces that showcase their individuality and creativity. Through these activities, campers develop fine motor skills, boost self-esteem, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Painting with Passion: Canvas and Acrylic
Let your creativity flow onto the canvas as you experiment with acrylic paints. Our art instructors will guide campers through various painting techniques, teaching them how to mix colors, create textures, and bring their visions to life. Campers will explore different themes and subjects, allowing them to express their emotions and perspectives through their artwork. The joy of seeing their finished paintings displayed proudly at the end of the camp is a testament to their artistic growth and accomplishments.
Sculpting Wonders: Pottery and Clay
Get your hands dirty and dive into the world of pottery and clay sculpting. Campers will learn the fundamentals of working with clay, from molding and shaping to firing and glazing. Guided by experienced pottery instructors, campers will create functional pieces such as bowls, mugs, and vases, as well as unique sculptures that reflect their imagination. This hands-on experience allows campers to develop patience, focus, and attention to detail while fostering a sense of pride in their tangible creations.
Expressive Designs: Tie-Dye and Jewelry Making
Unleash your inner fashion designer with our tie-dye and jewelry making sessions. Campers will have the opportunity to transform plain white clothes into vibrant, one-of-a-kind masterpieces using a variety of tie-dye techniques. Additionally, campers can explore the art of jewelry making, creating bracelets, necklaces, and earrings using colorful beads, threads, and charms. These activities not only enhance campers’ fine motor skills but also allow them to showcase their personal style and creativity.
Sports Galore: Teamwork and Athletics
Get ready to channel your inner athlete! Our sports activities encourage campers to develop essential teamwork skills, improve coordination, and enhance physical fitness. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, swimming, or a friendly game of capture the flag, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Kick Goals and Score Points: Soccer and Basketball
Experience the thrill of competitive team sports as you kick goals and shoot hoops. Our qualified coaches will guide campers through soccer and basketball drills, teaching them essential skills such as passing, shooting, and teamwork. Campers will have the opportunity to participate in friendly matches, fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also teach valuable lessons about resilience, discipline, and cooperation.
Dive In and Make Waves: Swimming and Water Sports
Make a splash in our pools and lakes as you dive into the world of swimming and water sports. Our certified swimming instructors provide personalized lessons for campers of all skill levels, ensuring that each child feels confident and comfortable in the water. Campers will learn essential swimming techniques, improve their stroke efficiency, and develop water safety skills. Additionally, our camp offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and water polo, allowing campers to explore new aquatic adventures.
Run, Jump, Play: Track and Field
Experience the thrill of track and field events as you run, jump, and compete against your fellow campers. Our camp offers a range of track and field activities, including sprinting, long jump, shot put, and relay races. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, campers will develop speed, agility, and endurance while learning the importance of fair play and good sportsmanship. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also instill a sense of personal achievement and determination.
Equine Therapy: Connecting with Horses
Discover the incredible benefits of equine therapy as campers connect with our gentle and majestic horses. Through horseback riding and equine-assisted activities, campers develop trust, emotional awareness, and strengthen their communication skills.
Riding with Confidence: Horseback Riding Lessons
Saddle up and embark on a journey of horsemanship as you learn to ride with confidence. Our experienced riding instructors provide personalized lessons tailored to each camper’s skill level, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Campers will learn basic riding techniques, such as mounting, steering, and proper posture. As they progress, they will have the opportunity to explore different riding styles, such as Western or English. The bond formed between camper and horse is a testament to the therapeutic power of these magnificent animals.
Connecting Hearts: Equine-Assisted Therapy
Experience the healing power of horses through our equine-assisted therapy sessions. Campers will engage in activities that promote emotional growth and self-reflection, such as grooming, leading, and interacting with the horses. These activities provide campers with a unique opportunity to develop trust, empathy, and emotional regulation. The gentle nature of horses creates a safe and non-judgmental environment, allowing campers to explore their emotions and build confidence. Equine-assisted therapy can have a profound impact on campers’ social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Campfire Tales: Building Friendships
Gather around the campfire and let the magic of storytelling ignite new friendships. Campers will bond with their peers through shared experiences, laughter, and the joy of creating lasting memories that will warm their hearts for years to come.
Stories that Inspire: Campfire Tales
As the sun sets and the stars twinkle above, campers gather around the crackling campfire to share stories that inspire and captivate. Whether it’s a spooky ghost tale, a hilarious anecdote, or a heartfelt personal experience, storytelling brings campers closer together. The campfire becomes a space of connection, where campers can express themselves, listen to others, and develop empathy. These shared moments create a sense of belonging and forge lifelong friendships.
Musical Harmony: Campfire Sing-Alongs
What’s a campfire without a sing-along? Campers will join in the chorus of laughter and song as they strum their guitars, play the tambourine, or simply lend their voices to the melodies. From campfire classics tocontemporary hits, the campfire sing-alongs are a joyful celebration of music and camaraderie. Campers will learn new songs, harmonize with their friends, and create a sense of unity through the power of music. These musical moments around the campfire create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds between campers, fostering a sense of belonging and friendship.
Mind and Body Wellness: Yoga and Meditation
Nurture the mind, body, and soul with our rejuvenating yoga and meditation sessions. Campers will learn relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices, and strategies to manage stress, promoting overall well-being and emotional resilience.
Find Your Inner Balance: Yoga and Stretching
Take a deep breath and find your inner balance through yoga and stretching sessions. Led by certified yoga instructors, campers will learn various poses, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. Yoga promotes flexibility, strength, and body awareness, while also fostering mindfulness and stress reduction. Campers will leave each session feeling calm, centered, and equipped with tools to navigate the challenges of everyday life.
Quiet the Mind: Guided Meditation
Amidst the hustle and bustle of camp life, our guided meditation sessions provide campers with a quiet space to find inner peace and calm. Led by experienced meditation instructors, campers will learn techniques to quiet the mind, focus their attention, and cultivate a sense of presence. Meditation promotes mental clarity, emotional well-being, and self-awareness. Campers will develop valuable skills to manage stress, enhance concentration, and nurture their overall mental and emotional health.
Life Skills for Success: Independence and Empowerment
Equip campers with essential life skills to thrive beyond camp. From cooking and gardening to problem-solving and decision-making, our sessions empower campers with the tools they need to become more independent, confident, and ready to face future challenges.
Culinary Adventures: Cooking and Meal Preparation
Discover the joy of culinary creativity as campers embark on culinary adventures in our cooking and meal preparation sessions. Campers will learn basic cooking techniques, explore different recipes, and gain confidence in the kitchen. From chopping vegetables to whipping up delicious meals, campers will develop valuable culinary skills while discovering the flavors and traditions of diverse cuisines. These sessions promote independence, teamwork, and an appreciation for healthy eating habits.
Green Thumbs: Gardening and Sustainability
Get your hands dirty and connect with nature through our gardening and sustainability sessions. Campers will learn how to tend to a garden, plant seeds, and cultivate their own plants. They will gain an understanding of sustainable practices, such as composting and water conservation. Gardening fosters a sense of responsibility, patience, and appreciation for the environment. Campers will take pride in watching their plants thrive and harvest the fruits of their labor, metaphorically and literally.
Problem Solvers: Critical Thinking and Decision-Making
Empower campers with critical thinking and decision-making skills that will serve them well beyond the campgrounds. Through engaging activities and interactive challenges, campers will develop problem-solving strategies, learn to think creatively, and practice making informed decisions. These sessions promote analytical thinking, resilience, and self-confidence, equipping campers with the tools to navigate various situations and overcome obstacles in their everyday lives.
In conclusion, Charis Hills Camp offers an exceptional summer experience for children and teenagers with special needs. Through a wide range of activities and programs, campers have the opportunity to grow, discover their potential, and forge lifelong friendships in a supportive and inclusive environment. Join us at Charis Hills Camp and unlock a world of adventure, self-discovery, and endless fun!