The special education program at the University of Arkansas is taking applications for Camp Connect, an inclusive summer day camp for children who have autism. There are only a few slots left; however, the program is seeking children of the same ages without autism to attend as peer mentors.

Peer mentors have the opportunity to learn to interact with diverse individuals, while having fun in a supervised camp atmosphere.

Camp Connect for ages 5-8 takes place July 10 through 13 and for ages 9-12 takes place July 17 through 20. In addition to these two weeks at the University of Arkansas, Camp Connect is partnering with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville to provide an arts-focused camp for children with autism and peers ages 9-12 from July 25 through 28.

The purpose of Camp Connect is for children with autism to have fun while connecting with other children who may or may not have autism. Each child with autism will be paired with a peer mentor with similar interests and age and a U of A behavior technician student to maximize success.

Information and applications can be found on the website of the special education program in the College of Education and Health Professions. The application is due May 15.

There is no cost for the camp.