Developing Social Skills of Summer Campers with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Study of Camps on TRACKS Implementation in an Inclusive Day-Camp Setting

Maich, Kimberly and Hall, Carmen L. and van Rhijn, Tricia Marie and Quinlan, Laurie (2015) Developing Social Skills of Summer Campers with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Study of Camps on TRACKS Implementation in an Inclusive Day-Camp Setting. Exceptionality Education International, 25 (2). pp. 27-41. ISSN 1918-5227

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Abstract

This research provides preliminary results of an exploratory case study conducted of the Camps on TRACKS program in an inclusive, municipal day-camp program in southwestern Ontario, Canada. Positive changes are demonstrated in the social skills of nine day campers with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who participated in the program. In this model of social inclusion, all campers were taught skills to interact with peers with exceptionalities through a peer-mediated model. Social skills change was measured using direct observation and counsellor questionnaires. Primary findings included an overall increase in social skills in campers with an ASD, and an inverse relationship between adult and peer interactions. Camps on TRACKS is a promising model for supporting the social skills development of campers with an ASD in inclusive settings.

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