Programs and Camps

SWIMMING
Instructed by a certified  lifeguard with experience working with children with ASD, the goals are for participants to become comfortable in the pool, understand water safety, and learn new swim techniques and strokes.  Participants will be assessed during the first session and provided direction based on their skills.  Parents or guardians may be asked to participate if a 1:1 is needed.

Dates: Sundays, Sept. 16 - Nov. 4
Ages: 5-10 yrs.
Time: 10:00-10:45am
Location: Aquatic Center Pool (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $130

INDOOR SOCCER
Participants will learn to play the game of soccer through simple drills and small games.  Goals include strengthening motor skills, direction following and cooperative interaction with peers. 

Dates: Saturdays, Oct. 13 - Dec. 8 (No session Nov. 24)
Ages:   4-9 yrs.
Time: 9:30-10:30am
Location: OU Rec Center (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $60  Limited Scholarships Available

BASIC SOCIAL SKILLS  
This program is designed to teach Social Skills in a play-centered small group   setting.  Activities will include skill-based lessons, interactive play & games, role playing, behavior modeling & positive social interactions with peers.  Individuals must have conversational language skills and be able to verbally communicated effectively.

Dates: Thursdays, Oct. 4—Nov. 29 (No Session Nov. 22)
Grades:  K-2nd
Time: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Location: Room 204, Meadows Learning Center (1435 W Auburn Rd)
Cost: $130  Limited Scholarships Available

SWIMMING
Instructed by a certified  lifeguard with experience working with children with ASD, the goals are for participants to become comfortable in the pool, understand water safety, and learn new swim techniques and strokes.  Participants will be assessed during the first session and provided direction based on their skills.  Parents or guardians may be asked to participate if a 1:1 is needed.

Dates: Sundays, Sept. 16 - Nov. 4
Ages: 5-10 yrs. Time: 10:00-10:45am
Ages: 11-16 yrs. Time: 11:00-11:45am
Location: Aquatic Center Pool (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $130

INDOOR SOCCER
Participants will learn to play the simple game of soccer through simple drills and small games.  Goals include strengthening motor skills, direction following and cooperative interaction with peers. 

Dates: Saturdays, Oct. 13 - Dec. 8 (No session Nov. 24)
Ages: 4-9 yrs. Time: 9:30-10:30am
Location: OU Rec Center (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $60 Limited Scholarships Available

BASIC SOCIAL SKILLS  
This program is designed to teach Social Skills in a play-centered small group   setting.  Activities will include skill-based lessons, interactive play & games, role playing, behavior modeling & positive social interactions with peers.  Individuals must have conversational language skills and be able to verbally communicated effectively. 

Dates: Thursdays, Oct. 4—Nov. 29 (No Session Nov. 22)
Grades:  K-2nd Time: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades:  3rd-5th Time: 6:30 - 7:30
Location: Room 204   Meadows Learning Center (1435 W Auburn Rd)
Cost: $130  Limited Scholarships Available

JUDO
Instructed by Judo Steve, a 5th Level Black Belt with experience teaching   individuals with ASD.  Learn the basics of Judo while building confidence, self-discipline, listening skills, increase coordination and controlled movements.  Judo is a fun way to exercise while also learning to follow directions and practice self-defense skills.  Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program!

Dates: Tuesdays, Sept. 25—Nov. 13
Ages: 7-14 yrs.
Time: 6:00-7:00pm
Location: Pawley Hall Atrium (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $80  Limited Scholarships Available

BASKETBALL
Participants will learn basic basketball skills such as dribbling, shooting, and team skills in a supportive environment.  Mastering these skills will involve listening, direction following and interacting with teammates.

Dates: Fridays, Oct. 12-Dec. 7 (No Session  Nov. 23)
Ages: 10-15 yrs.  
Time: 6:00-7:00pm
Location: Recreation Center-Activity Center (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $60

Dates: Saturdays, Oct. 13 - Dec. 8 (No session Nov. 24)
Ages:  6-12 yrs.
Time: 10:30-11:30am
Location: Recreation Center- Gym 3 (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $60 Limited Scholarships Available (Saturday Sessions Only)

YOGA
This fun movement program utilizes breathing exercises,  yoga poses & movement activities to benefit the individual with ASD. The gross motor movements practiced are designed to positively impact fitness, self-regulation & motor performance in a relaxing environment. Bring a yoga mat. Classes are taught by a certified yoga instructor.

Dates: Wednesdays, Oct. 3—Dec. 5 (No Session Oct. 31, Nov. 21) 
Ages: 8+ yrs.
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Location: Room 200 Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd.)
Cost: $100 

ROBOTICS CLUB
Learn the fundamentals of Robotics and basic computer programming in this interactive social club.  Participants will work with Lego Mindstorm robots and computers to introduce the concepts of building a robot, introduction to programming, demonstrations and competitions, all while working on teamwork and social skills.  This program is designed for individuals with High-Functioning Autism, PDD/NOS or Asperger’s with conversational language skills who can follow multi-step directions with minimal prompts and do not need a 1:1 support.

Dates: Mondays, Oct. 1 to Nov. 5
Ages: 10-14 yrs.  
Time: 6:00– 7:30pm
Location: Room 203 Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd.)
Cost: $130

TEEN SOCIAL CLUB
This program offers an opportunity for pre-teens & teens to meet new people and socialize while learning about different teen topics each week.  The  instructor will use a variety of techniques to encourage & demonstrate positive social interaction through games, conversation, shared interests and activities.  This program is for participants with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger’s with conversational language skills who do not need a 1:1 support.

Dates: Tuesdays, Oct. 2—Nov.20
Ages: 11-14 yrs.
Time: 6:30 - 8:00pm
Location: Room 203  Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd)
Cost: $130

SNAG GOLF
Starting New At Golf (SNAG) is simplified golf, allowing  full shots, pitching,   chipping, and putting using modified equipment. Goals include improving motor skills, direction following, and social skills. This program is for people with a  diagnosis of Asperger’s, High-Functioning Autism, or PDD/NOS.  We will be   using OU’s Par 3 golf course throughout the program.  Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program!

Dates:  Mondays, Sept 10—Oct. 15
Ages: 8 + yrs.
Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm
Location: OU Golf Course (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $80

BASEBALL
The OU Men’s Baseball Team teaches participants the fundamentals of baseball through skill stations and modified games. Skills such as hitting, throwing and catching will be practiced each week, along with learning how to interact as a team player.

Dates: Tuesdays, Sept. 11- Oct. 16
Ages: 8-14 yrs.    Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Ages:  15+ yrs     Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Location: OU Baseball Fields (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $50

PHOTOGRAPHY AND PHOTO EDITING
Participants will learn the main functions of a digital camera and how to best
utilize them in different settings.  Participants will use photographs taken in class as tools to learn basic photo editing techniques in Adobe Photoshop. 
Instructed by professional photographers. This program is designed for individuals with a diagnosis of Asperger’s, High-Functioning Autism or PDD/NOS who do not need a 1:1 support.

SWIMMING
Instructed by a certified  lifeguard with experience working with children with ASD, the goals are for participants to become comfortable in the pool, understand water safety, and learn new swim techniques and strokes.  Participants will be    assessed during the first session and provided direction based on their skills.  Parents or guardians may be asked to participate if a 1:1 is needed.

Dates: Sundays, Sept. 16 - Nov. 4
Ages: 11-16 yrs. Time: 11:00-11:45am
Location: Aquatic Center Pool (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $130

BASKETBALL
Participants will learn basic basketball skills such as dribbling, shooting, and team skills in a supportive environment.  Mastering these skills will involve listening, direction following and interacting with teammates.

Dates: Fridays, Oct. 12-Dec. 7 (No Session  Nov. 23)
Ages: 10-15 yrs.   Time: 6:00-7:00pm
Ages: 16+ yrs.      Time: 7:00-8:00pm
Location: Recreation Center-Activity Center (OU CAMPUS) Cost: $60
Cost: $60     

JUDO
Instructed by Judo Steve, a 5th Level Black Belt with experience teaching   individuals with ASD.   Learn the basics of Judo while building confidence, self-discipline, listening skills, increase coordination and controlled movements.  Judo is a fun way to exercise while also learning to follow directions and practice self-defense skills.  Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program!

Dates: Tuesdays, Sept. 25—Nov. 13
Ages: 7-14 yrs. Time: 6:00-7:00pm
Location: Pawley Hall Atrium (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $80  Limited Scholarships Available

YOGA
This fun movement program utilizes breathing exercises,  yoga poses & movement activities to benefit the individual with ASD. The gross motor
movements practiced are designed to positively impact fitness, self-regulation & motor performance in a relaxing environment. Bring a yoga mat. Classes are taught by a certified yoga instructor.

Dates: Wednesdays, Oct. 3—Dec. 5 (No Session Oct. 31, Nov. 21)
Ages: 8+ yrs.
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Location: Room 200 Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd.)
Cost: $100    

ROBOTICS CLUB
Learn the fundamentals of Robotics and basic computer programming in this interactive social club.  Participants will work with Lego Mindstorm robots and computers to introduce the concepts of building a robot, introduction to programming, demonstrations and competitions, all while working on teamwork and social skills.  This program is designed for individuals with High-Functioning Autism, PDD/NOS or Asperger’s with conversational language skills who can follow multi-step directions with minimal prompts and do not need a 1:1 support.

Dates: Mondays, Oct. 1 to Nov. 5
Ages: 10-14 yrs.   Time: 6:00– 7:30pm
Location: Room 203 Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd.)
Cost: $130

VOLLEYBALL 
Participants learn to play a sport while socializing and having fun! Players learn basics of volleyball while also learning team work, increasing their confidence, improving their motor skills and coordination. Program designed for individuals with conversational language skills who follow simple directions with a diagnosis of PDD/NOS, Asperger’s, or High Functioning Autism.

Dates: Tuesdays, Oct. 2—Nov. 20
Ages: 16+ yrs.
Time:  6:30-8:00pm
Location: Woodland Elementary Gym (6465 Livernois, Troy)
Cost: $40

SNAG GOLF
Starting New At Golf (SNAG) is simplified golf, allowing  full shots, pitching,   chipping, and putting using modified equipment. Goals include improving motor skills, direction following, and social skills. This program is for people with a  diagnosis of Asperger’s, High-Functioning Autism, or PDD/NOS.  We will be   using OU’s Par 3 golf course throughout the program.  Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program!

Dates:  Mondays, Sept 10—Oct. 15
Ages: 8 + yrs.
Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm
Location: OU Golf Course (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $80

BASEBALL
The OU Men’s Baseball Team teaches participants the fundamentals of baseball through skill stations and modified games. Skills such as hitting, throwing and catching will be practiced each week, along with learning how to interact as a team player.

Dates: Tuesdays, Sept. 11- Oct. 16
Ages: 8-14 yrs.  Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Ages:  15+ yrs   Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Location: OU Baseball Fields (OU CAMPUS)
Cost: $50

PHOTOGRAPHY AND PHOTO EDITING
Participants will learn the main functions of a digital camera and how to best
utilize them in different settings.  Participants will use photographs taken in class as tools to learn basic photo editing techniques in Adobe Photoshop. 
Instructed by professional photographers. This program is designed for individuals with a diagnosis of Asperger’s, High-Functioning Autism or PDD/NOS who do not need a 1:1 support.

Dates: Mondays, Oct. 1—Nov. 19
Ages: 13+ yrs. Time:  5:30-7:00 pm
Location: Room 204  Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd.)
Cost: $200 

TEEN SOCIAL CLUB
This program offers an opportunity for pre-teens & teens to meet new people and socialize while learning about different teen topics each week.  The  instructor will use a variety of techniques to encourage & demonstrate positive social interaction through games, conversation, shared interests and activities.  This program is for participants with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger’s with conversational language skills who do not need a 1:1 support.

Dates: Tuesdays, Oct. 2—Nov.20
Ages: 11-14 yrs.  
Time: 6:30 - 8:00pm
Location: Room 203  Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd)
Cost: $130
 
Dates: Thursdays, Oct. 4—Dec. 6 (No Session Oct. 25, Nov. 22)
Ages: 15-18 yrs. 
Time: 6:30 - 8:00pm
Location: Room 203  Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd)
Cost: $130 

 
UNIQUELY ME: Women on the Spectrum Connect
Learn and laugh in this social group led by Tracey Cohen, self-described 'aspie author' of Six Word Lessons on Female Asperger Syndrome. Tracey will lead discussions on relevant women's topics including finding & keeping relationships, employment challenges, daily sensory issues, independence, and embracing aspie life in today's society. This program is for adult women with Asperger’s or High­Functioning Autism with conversational language skills.

Dates: Tuesdays, Sept. 25—Nov. 13
Ages: 18+
Time: 6:30-8:00pm  
Location: Room 480K Pawley Hall (OU CAMPUS)
Cost:  $80 

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS for ADULTS
This program offers Adults with High-Functioning ASD or Asperger’s an opportunity to meet new people and socialize while learning about relevant topics each week.  The instructor will address important issues such as: making and maintaining relationships, workplace etiquette, social media and internet safety, community interactions and so much more.

Dates: Wednesdays, Oct. 3—Dec. 5 (No Oct. 31, Nov. 21)
Ages: 18+
Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Location: Room 203 Meadows Learning Center (1435 W. Auburn Rd.)
Cost: $130.00

AFTER HOURS ADULT SOCIAL
This is a support group for adults with the diagnosis of Asperger's, High Functioning Autism or PDD/NOS.  come join us for pizza, conversation, cards, games, and fun! No registration required, come when you are able.

Tuesdays, Sept. 25, Oct. 23, Nov. 13
Ages: 18+      
Time: 6:00 - 9:00pm
Location: Oakland Center (OU CAMPUS)
No Cost For This Program

Teen Life Skills Camp & Adult Life Skills Camp is for individuals with High Functioning Autism, Aspergers or PDD/NOS.  

Teen Life Skills (2 Groups: 11-14 yrs, 15-18 yrs) is located at Meadows Learning Center in Rochester.
Adult Life Skills (16 yrs and up) is located at Oakland University in Rochester.

Each session will be full of fun activities focused on learning life skills including:

• Practical Living Skills: Clothing care, menu planning, grocery shopping, and cooking.
• Interpersonal Skills: Initiative/dependability, anger management, conflict resolution, self-esteem, social skills, and self-confidence.
• Personal Management Skills: Money management, time management, personal health care

Daily Activities will include:

• Campers plan and prepare lunch
• Personal health care: exercise, personal hygiene and clothing care
• Team-building activities: include starting a microbusiness to build employable skills learning about conflict resolution skills, managing anger issues
• Field trips within the community to practice new life skills learned at camp

For Summer Day Camp, Pee Wee Camp, Teen Life Skills Camp &  Adult Life Skills Camp, a non-refundable deposit of $100 per session is due when your participant is admitted (OUCARES will send you an email) to secure your participant's placement at camp. This deposit will be applied to your total camp payment. All remaining payments are due in full by JUNE 1. 

All Pee Wee campers (ages 3-6), all NEW Summer Day campers (ages 7-12), and all NEW Teen and Adult Life Skills campers are required to complete a casual assessment with OUCARES staff prior to camp. All campers who have an assessment are required to pay a $50 non-refundable assessment fee which is due prior to the day of assessment. This is a one-time fee and is in addition to the camp fee. There will be no assessment for returning Summer Day campers or returning Teen & Adult Life Skills campers. If you have a Pee Wee camper (age 3-6) or a new Summer Day (ages 7-12) or Teen or Adult Life Skills camper, OUCARES will contact you once we receive your completed application packet. An OUCARES staff member will then schedule your camper’s assessment during a time that fits your schedule.

For Pee Wee Campers (age 3-6), please bring your child to check in with OUCARES staff at the entrance to the Lowry Center on the 1st floor of Pawley Hall. For Summer Day Campers (age 7-12), you will be sent an email indicating your child's room number.  Please bring your child to the assigned room the first day of camp.  You will then drop off and pick up your child at that assigned room location for the remainder of the session. For Meadows Teen Life Skills Campers, please bring your child to check in with OUCARES staff at room 201 on the second floor of Meadows Learning Center. Meadows is located at 1435 W. Auburn Rd. in Rochester Hills.  For Adult Life Skills campers (age 16+), more detailed information will be provided at a later date. 

Should your camper be absent or late, please call (248-370-2424) or email ( oucares@oakland.edu) the OUCARES offices no later than 8:30 a.m. the morning your camper will be absent or late.

Each camper must have sunscreen, a hat to block the sun, a water bottle, a towel, a change of clothes, any medicines they need, and their daily take home folder. Also for Pee Wee and Summer Day campers, please bring a sack lunch and snacks labeled with your child’s name each day to camp. We will not have access to a refrigerator, so be sure to pack food accordingly. For those days that Summer Day campers will be swimming, be sure your camper has a swim suit and a towel.

Pee Wee camp typically begins each day with fun sensory activities to help campers get out energy at the beginning of the day. The morning is divided into structured play times, circle time (including reading and singing), playground time, and structured activities at the table. After lunch, Pee Wee campers may have some quiet choice time, followed by creative expression activities, outdoor fun, snack time, and social skills practice.

Summer Day campers start their day with structured free choice activities and morning circle time. Mornings continue with outdoor activities and life skills training. After lunch, campers go swimming on certain days, or they may go for a nature walk or on the playground. In the afternoon, campers focus on structured activities before closing circle time. Summer Day campers will go on field trips to the park on designated Fridays.

Life Skills camp begins every day with campers learning good hygiene practices and enjoying a pre-made snack. Then, campers may have a structured outdoor activity before engaging in creative thinking, team-building, and life skills projects. Life Skills campers prepare and eat their own lunches and then have a quiet free choice time. The afternoon consists of more social skills activities, learning about a micro-enterprise, and camper-planned activities. Life Skills campers will go on field trips into the community on certain days as well in order to practice the life skills they have been learning.