6 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Therapeutic Summer Program for Your Child

Expert-level questions to ensure your child's summer program is truly therapeutic and developmentally appropriate.

Not all summer programs labeled as "therapeutic" or "special needs-friendly" actually provide the structured support your child needs. True therapeutic summer programs differ significantly from regular camps with accommodations. Here are six essential questions to help you identify whether a program will genuinely support your child's development.

1. What Professional Qualifications Do the Staff Have?

Look for programs led by licensed occupational therapists, physical therapists, or speech-language pathologists. Ask:

• Are staff members licensed professionals or students under direct supervision?

• What specific training do they have in child development and your child's needs?

• How many qualified therapists work directly with children versus in supervisory roles?

Red flag: Programs where only the director has professional credentials, while direct-care staff are general camp counselors.

2. How Is the Program Structured to Meet Individual Needs?

Effective therapeutic programs create individualized plans for each child. Inquire about:

• How initial assessments are conducted

• Whether specific goals are set for each participant

• How activities are adapted for different developmental levels

• The process for adjusting programming based on progress

• What accommodations are made for sensory needs

• How peer interactions are facilitated and supported

What to look for: Programs that conduct evaluations, share written goals with parents, and demonstrate flexibility in their approach.

3. What Is the Staff-to-Child Ratio?

Therapeutic programs require more individualized attention than typical camps. Ask:

• What is the overall staff-to-child ratio?

• Are ratios maintained even during specialized activities?

• How many children with similar needs are grouped together?

• Is there additional support for children who need one-on-one assistance?

Ideal ratios: Look for 1:3 or 1:4 for therapeutic programs, with even lower ratios for more intensive needs.

4. How Does the Program Balance Structure with Play-Based Learning?

The best therapeutic summer programs embed goals within enjoyable activities. Find out:

• How activities are chosen and planned

• Whether fun is balanced with therapeutic objectives

• How they handle children who resist certain activities

• What happens when a child is having a difficult day

Good signs: Programs that describe specific activities designed to meet therapeutic goals while remaining engaging.

5. What Specific Developmental Areas Does the Program Target?

Quality programs clearly articulate their focus areas. Make surveyor’s child is a fit for the program’s aims. Ask about:

• Which skills do they actively address (fine motor, gross motor, social, sensory, communication)

• How do they determine which areas to focus on for each child

• Whether they address underlying challenges or just surface behaviors

• How different developmental needs are met within group activities

  
  

Red flag: Vague answers about "helping all children" without specific examples or methodologies.

6. How Will Progress Be Measured and Communicated?

Therapeutic programs should track skills systematically. Inquire about:

• How progress is assessed

• What documentation is kept

• When and how often do parents receive updates

• Whether parents can observe

• What information is shared for school planning

What to expect: Regular updates, specific examples of progress, and transition planning for the school year.

Additional Questions to Consider

Beyond these six core questions, also ask about:

• How the program handles behavioral challenges

• What is the policy for children who aren't thriving in the program

Making the Right Choice

A truly therapeutic summer program should feel different from a regular camp with accommodations. Staff should speak knowledgeably about development, provide specific examples of how they address challenges, and demonstrate genuine understanding of your child's needs.

POTS Therapeutic Summer Programs: Setting the Standard

At POTS, our summer programs are designed and led by licensed occupational and speech therapists who understand child development. We conduct thorough assessments, create individualized goals, maintain appropriate ratios, and provide detailed progress reports.

Our programs combine the fun of summer camp with the expertise of pediatric therapy.

Ready to choose a summer program that truly supports your child's development? Contact us today to discuss how POTS summer programs can meet your child's specific needs while ensuring they have a fantastic summer experience.