Below is a list of information, organizations and opportunities we’ve found to be helpful for our families during their medical journey. Our list includes articles from our specialists; educational videos; websites offering information/support for children with craniofacial conditions and their families; support organizations, networks and mental health services in our region; and details about scholarships, medical grants and camps.
Research shows that children with cleft lip, cleft palate or other craniofacial differences may experience psychosocial or emotional stressors. Some may also face learning challenges and/or behavior problems. Sometimes, more support and help are needed. Below are programs in our region that can help with these types of issues.
Community service boards operate throughout Virginia and provide mental health services to all residents. These services include crisis intervention, case management, therapy, medication, evaluation and referral to appropriate providers. To search for the nearest community service board near you, go to vacsb.org.
Virginia Treatment Center for Children (VTCC)
This inspirational facility offers inpatient hospitalization and outpatient services to children and teens with mental and behavioral health care needs. VTCC accepts most major health insurance plans as well as Medicaid. To learn more or for appointments: (804) 828-3129.
Brook Road Campus psychology services
Psychologists on our Brook Road Campus specialize in working with children from birth to age 17 who have psychological needs related to medical, emotional and behavioral issues and neuropsychological needs following a neurological injury or illness. They provide individual and family and therapy, behavioral consultation, and psychological, neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations. For appointments, call (804) 228-5818.
Some camps are offered at different times throughout the year (not just summer) for children with speech needs and specific craniofacial diagnoses. To learn more about these camps, please directly contact the Center for Craniofacial Care.
Determining what your child will do when school is out for the summer can be a big, but rewarding, job. The process can be even more challenging when considering opportunities for children with special needs.
The cold days of winter may hardly seem like the time to think about planning summer experiences for your child. However, it’s important to start looking early to avoid missing the best opportunities for summer fun and enrichment. Programs have limited capacity and delaying registration may result in your child’s placement on a waiting list or missing out on the opportunity.
Start talking to your child early in the year about what they want to do for the summer. Summer programs can range from educational day camps to weeklong overnight camps. When choosing a program, it’s important to consider your child’s individual needs and goals. These may include enhancing their education, developing social skills or simply having as much fun as possible.
Consider programs that enroll children with all levels of abilities and investigate programs thoroughly to ensure they will meet your child’s needs. Be sure to ask questions and tour the facilities. Most of all, talk to parents who have experience with a program you’re considering. Just remember to start planning early so that all the appropriate opportunities can be identified and evaluated.
Area program offerings include:
Blackwater Outdoor Experiences
804-378-9006
blackwateroutdoor.com
Camp Baker
804-748-4789
Camp Easter Seals UCP
804-287-1007
https://eastersealsucp.com/
Chesterfield County Department of Parks & Recreation
804-751-4134
chesterfield.gov
Exceptional Camp for Exceptional Kids
erinsmydra@yahoo.com
Hanover County Parks and Recreation
804–365–4692
https://www.hanovercounty.gov
Henrico County Division of Recreation & Parks
804-501-7275
henrico.us/rec/
Northstar Academy Day Camp
804-747-1003
northstaracademy.net
Voices Together at the Weinstein JCC
804-285-6500
weinsteinjcc.org
