Camp Chatterbox is an intensive therapy camp for children, ages 5 -15, who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and a training program for their parents. It is sponsored by the Children's Specialized Hospital in Mountainside, NJ. Founded in 1992 by Joan Bruno, Ph.D., Camp Chatterbox gives children an opportunity to interact with other children using AAC systems while learning to use their devices in functional activities.
The mission of Camp Chatterbox is threefold: (1) to help children become more interactive with their AAC devices and to have fun in the process; (2) to help parents gain the necessary skills to facilitate functional device use at home and in the community; and (3) to provide opportunities for professionals working in the field to gain hands-on experience working with children using AAC devices.
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Each year Camp has a different theme that provides the framework for all therapy and recreational activities. These activities are designed to facilitate device use in a fun and functional environment. During a typical day at Camp Chatterbox, a camper will be involved in a range of therapeutic activities which promote communication and peer interaction. Therapy sessions are conducted in a small group format. Campers are grouped with children of similar ages and abilities. Device use is encouraged throughout the day in the full range therapeutic and recreational activities. Campers also enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking and sports. At lunchtime campers have an opportunity to use their devices to make announcements to all campers, parents and staff. This provides an excellent opportunity for initiated communication. Each evening, siblings, parents, and staff join the campers as they participate in a range of fun activities such as campfires, dances and team activities. Camp typically ends with an "All-Camp Talent Show".
Facilities and Location
Camp Warren is located on a thirty-five acre site in Knowlton Township, just outside of Columbia, NJ. This year-round facility includes 8 cabins with bathroom and shower facilities, a dining hall, rec hall and a lake for fishing. It has an outdoor pool and facilities for a variety of outdoor sports.
(2) to help parents gain the necessary skills to facilitate functional device use at home and in the community; and (3) to provide opportunities for professionals working in the field to gain hands-on experience working with children using AAC devices.
Each year Camp has a different theme that provides the framework for all therapy and recreational activities. These activities are designed to facilitate device use in a fun and functional environment. During a typical day at Camp Chatterbox, a camper will be involved in a range of therapeutic activities which promote communication and peer interaction. Therapy sessions are conducted in a small group format. Campers are grouped with children of similar ages and abilities. Device use is encouraged throughout the day in the full range therapeutic and recreational activities. Campers also enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking and sports. At lunchtime campers have an opportunity to use their devices to make announcements to all campers, parents and staff. This provides an excellent opportunity for initiated communication. Each evening, siblings, parents, and staff join the campers as they participate in a range of fun activities such as campfires, dances and team activities. Camp typically ends with an "All-Camp Talent Show".
Camp Warren is located on a thirty-five acre site in Knowlton Township, just outside of Columbia, NJ. This year-round facility includes 8 cabins with bathroom and shower facilities, a dining hall, rec hall and a lake for fishing. It has an outdoor pool and facilities for a variety of outdoor sports.