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A week-long get-away designed for families with kids on the autism spectrum is being offered thanks to the St. Louis County Children's Services Fund. The camp, Meramec Adventure Learning Ranch, is located in Steelville, Mo., and is offering two, week-long camps at no cost.
The camp is an opportunity for families to relax in the great outdoors, and enjoy and support each other. Skilled camp staff members direct activities and assist with sensory, communication and/or behavioral support as needed. This is a semi-primitive camp experience. Family tents are provided and meals are cooked over a campfire with help from an expert guide. There is no electricity or running water at the campsites.
The camp is free for families residing in St. Louis County who support a child or children, ages 7 to 17, with diagnoses on the autism spectrum. All participating family members must be at least 7 years old. Space is limited. Application deadline is May 27, 2011. Camp sessions run July 18 through 22 and July 25 through 29. For more information call 573-775-5513.
Visit the James S. McDonnell Planetarium in Forest Park and see a star show to experience the largest artificial sky in the Western Hemisphere. Star shows are lead LIVE by one of the Planetarium's educators, creating a new and tailored experience for every audience.
Young visitors and their families are invited to the Life Science Lab Classroom at the Saint Louis Science Center to enjoy interactive read-alouds of science-themed picture books. Story times are followed by a short demonstration or discussion connected to the book's main concepts.
Sensory Friendly Science Time features reduced noise, modified lighting and sensory-friendly demonstrations at the Saint Louis Science Center.
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!