Our Approach
We design our recreation programs with neurodivergent kids and youth in mind.
We have a high staff to camper ratio:
Small group sizes allow our campers to make their mark on the community and build a sense of belonging. With 1 staff for every 2 campers, we can provide customized care to ensure every child experiences success. At Camp Kirk this looks like ‘sideline coaching’ to navigate a social conflict, going to the Rock Throwing Range when frustration spikes, or getting prompts for upcoming transitions.
Our programs are non-competitive:
We play team games, however, there is not a big focus on winning and ‘being the best’. We aim to provide campers with an environment where the focus is on trying (and trying again!), learning from mistakes, and being part of the group. We often find our campers opt-out of programming when there is attention drawn to who wins/loses, and they end up missing out on the benefits that come from just joining in.
We take a nurturing approach
A child sitting in the corner by themselves may be shy. But they could also be overstimulated, confused by the instructions, or having a tough time joining in the social mix. At Camp Kirk, we try and hold back assumptions about surface behaviour so we can get a true understanding of a child’s needs. We go the extra mile to get to know our campers and their families so we can create care plans to bring out the best in each child.
We have a Group Focus
Many of our campers have a tough time excelling in large groups. However, they are at a stage where they are ready to learn the skills needed to tackle social settings and develop meaningful friendships. For this reason, our programs are designed to be small, but with a group focus. This gives our campers the perfect setting to practice conflict resolution, perspective taking, and compassion.
Hear what our families have to say
Application Process – Summer 2027
We work hand-in-hand with families to assess whether our program has the right approach and level of support for each camper. Our application process includes several helpful “get to know you” steps, such as a camper visit and teacher referral form. These steps are designed to make sure you and your child feel confident about the camp experience and are ready for the adventure ahead.
Unsure whether Camp Kirk is the right fit for your child? Submit an inquiry form to get in touch with one of our Camp Directors- we’d be happy to chat!
What do I need for a complete Camper Application?
- Camper Application Form: this gives us the basics about your child so we can place them.
- $50 application fee – refunded if you cancel your application by March 2, or if your child is waitlisted and doesn’t make it off the waitlist all summer.
Once the two items above are complete, you will recieve a confirmation email and your “place in line” is locked in.
- (New families only)Teacher Questionnaire: This can be completed by a teacher, EA, guidance counsellor, coach, therapist – whoever can speak to your child’s strengths and support needs outside of home.
- (New families only) Online Personal Camper Meeting: this helps us get to know each child and place them better! You will be sent booking instructions once the previous items are submitted.
All steps must be complete by January 16th to be considered for the first round of Session Offers. Have your application done by then for your best chance at financial aid and preferred session dates!
What do I need to lock in my place once I get a Session Offer?
This is called our “Enrollment Phase”. On February 2nd, we will send out our first round of session offers. Your spot is locked in once you have:
- Completed waivers & a couple more forms!
- Paid your camper fees (payment plans available).
Enrollment items are due on March 2nd!
What if I was waitlisted last year?
If you were waitlisted last year, you need to submit an application again.
If you completed the Teacher Questionnaire and Personal Camper meeting, you don’t have do do those steps again, and you can access applications when they open for returning families (November 24th).
If you started an application but didn’t complete the Teacher Questionnaire or Personal Camper meeting, you do have to complete those steps this year, and you can apply with New Families on December 1st.
Waitlisted families with complete applications were all refunded their $50 fee in September. That fee is needed this year again.
What if I want to apply for the Leaders-In-Training Program?
We love seeing so many families interested in our LIT program!
Applying for the program:
- The application process is almost exactly the same as returning families – just add LIT program to your cart instead of Camper program.
What ages we accept:
- The program overlaps in ages with our camper program (campers are 7-16, LITs are 15-18), but we prioritize campers who have aged out of our camper program, especially for the Classic LIT program.
For 15-16 year olds:
- If you’re unsure whether camper or LIT is the better pick, your best bet is to apply for LIT. Do not complete two applications (Camper and LIT) for one child if they are still eligible for both. If we are full or decide to place your child in a camper stream, you don’t need to redo your application.
To learn more about the program, please check out our November Info Session and this page: Leaders-In-Training.
Financial Aid
What are "third-party-organizations"?
We have partners we’ve worked with for years, who help sponsor campers. They each have different systems to award funding. The money we get from these organizations helps us maximize financial aid. The more families we can connect to this funding, the more families we can spread our funds to.
While Camp Kirk doesn’t require “proof-of-need”, some of these organizations do. They usually require a combination of:
- Notice of assessment (NOA)
- Separate application form(s)
This year, Camp Kirk will be asking families who have applied for financial aid for these items before our first round of session offers. This will help us maintain the sustainability of our financial aid program and give as much as possible.
Here are some examples of our third-party-orgs:
- Amici Children’s Camp Charity
- Taylor Statten Bursary Fund
- York Region – Youth Overnight Camp Recreation Subsidy
- Kids in Camp
- Jean Wansbrough Leadership Training Fund
You do not need to apply to these before applying to Camp Kirk, we will connect you to the best fit as we review applications in January.
Program Policies
Curious about certain camp policies? Take a look at some of our key documents below, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you would like to learn about other policies not listed.
Overnight Summer Camp
Camp Kirk’s overnight camp experience – a nurturing and non-competitive environment.
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Mentorship Programs
Supporting youth through the transition to adulthood. Our mentorship program help youth develop their leadership potential, independence, and employment skills.