We had a great time at the Taylor Bugs Kisses SMS camp when we went two years ago. My son Mikey (who was 3 years old at the time) enjoyed interacting with his camp counselor, rolling around in the ball pit, playing with the therapy toys, swinging in the swing set, and dancing with the other kids. It is difficult to find playmates and activities for my son, due to his developmental disability, SMS related behaviors, and the fact that he's nonverbal. But at camp, he can feel free to be himself and meet other kids just like him. There were fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, such as a boat ride, zip lining, and a manicure for the moms, to name a few. The siblings also had activities and a camp counselor. The most beneficial aspect of camp was simply to meet other parents of SMS'ers and just feel like a normal family, while also getting a break from our little ones thanks to the wonderful camp counselors.
My son Levi (18) has been blessed to be able to attend Taylor Bug Kisses Foundation family camp 3 times. Levi has behavioral issues, cognitive issues and aggression issues. Levi is 18 but functions on a 5 or 6 year level. At camp, we met others who live the exact same routine day to day that we do. We not only met other individuals in the same situation as us but they are now a part of our family. The love and bond we all share is amazing. Levi is able to do numerous activities while at camp. They also provide a counselor for siblings of the child affected and their main focus is to make sure the sibling has the time of their lives by swimming, boating, paintball, zip lining, mini golf, art and crafts, karaoke, water blob, canoeing, activities in the gym, or just chilling on the beach. Every person is thought of at this camp. The parents are on site and treated like royalty. The counselors take care of the individual affected with SMS for the entire time, bathing, sleeping, giving meds, toileting, and meals. It is located on a beautiful lake and the accomodations are warm and inviting. This camp has been a life saver for my family. The friendships we have gained are irreplaceable. I would highly recommend if you have a child with SMS to please fill out an application to be blessed beyond measure! Shannon and Ken LaFave are two of the most caring, selfless individuals I have ever met. No matter what is going on in their lives they just want to help other cope with the challenges of every day life even while they themselves have a beautiful daughter with SMS! I promise you will come to the camp as a stranger and leave as a family member. Not only with other parents but counselors, kids, siblings and staff alike.