Respite Alternatives

MDS offers activities for children of all ages, including Reach Out, Teen Time, Summer Camp Journey and School Vacation Mini-Camps.

Reach Out

Reach Out is three hours of activity-based respite, held every month on a Saturday evening from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.. Any child aged 6 to 14 with a developmental disability, chronic health condition or acquired brain injury and his/her sibling(s) can attend Reach Out and join the fun.

Reach Out events are held at LifeArt Community Resource Center at 25 Roxbury Street. Groups are formed according to age and/or interest, and activities include movies and theme parties, group games, arts and crafts, and quiet play. Parents pay a small fee of $5.00 for each child to attend. Check the MDS Events Calendar for this month’s date and time. Call Carol Brown, Respite Coordinator at 352-1304 for more information.

Teen Time

Teen Time is a program of cool and fun activities for teens between the ages of 11 and 19 in the Monadnock Region. It provides an environment that fosters inclusion not only for children with disabilities but also for all teens, with activities, workshops, and field trips where all teens will be included. Everyone is valuable and a necessary part of the group.

Teen Time is for young adults interested in doing different and unusual activities, creating new friendships, or simply getting out and having some fun.  All activities are free for Monadnock area teens. Whether you are a teenager or a parent, your input is welcome. To be added to our mailing list, make suggestions, or for any additional information, call Carol Brown, Respite Coordinator, at 352-1304. Check the MDS Events Calendar for this month’s date and time.

Summer Camp Journey

Camp Journey is an 8-week summer day camp held Monday through Friday from late June to August. The camp serves children aged 8 to 16 and provides a safe environment with a friendly and fun atmosphere that meets each child's individual needs.

Camp Journey is based at Franklin Elementary School in Keene, with activities within the greater Keene community and swimming at Surry Mountain Lake. Daily activities include arts and crafts, group games, swimming, music & movement, barbecues, special events and field trips. The camp schedule (4 full-day weeks and 4 half-day weeks) is created around extended school year special education programming in our communities. Campers can sign up for different weekly sessions or for all summer! The fee per camper is $50 per week. Call Carol Brown, Respite Coordinator at 352-1304 for more information.

School Vacation Mini-Camps

School Vacation Mini-Camps are offered during the weeks of February and April school breaks. These camps serve children age 8 to 16 on a daily basis from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Based at Franklin Elementary School, theme-based activities included arts & crafts, group games, bowling and more! The fee per camper is $50 per week. Call Carol Brown, Respite Coordinator at 352-1304 for more information.