Trauma-Informed Camps for
Children Who Are Adopted or
Currently in Foster Care
A Summer Built Around Connection
Summer camps at Joy Meadows provide children with new, fun experiences in an environment that is predictable, relational, and trauma-informed. Each camp is intentionally designed to support emotional regulation, confidence, and connection—while giving children space to simply be kids.
Builds healthy peer relationships
Supports emotional regulation and confidence
Restores joy, wonder, and curiosity through nature-based play
Children are matched with a trusted adult camp counselor, and a 4:1 child-to-counselor ratio ensures individualized care and meaningful connection.
🕊️ Caregivers receive day respite while knowing their child is safe and supported.
Explore Our Summer Camp Experiences
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Outdoor Adventure Camps focus on play, exploration, and classic camp fun in a highly relational environment.
Children enjoy:
Time at the lake, including kayaking and fishing
Water slide and outdoor games
Low ropes course experiences that build trust and confidence
Hands-on time in the garden and orchard, including harvesting and cooking
These camps are designed to help children try new things, build resilience, and experience the joy of being outdoors.
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Nature Camps are sensory-rich, trauma-informed experiences that help children connect with nature, themselves, and others in a safe and supportive environment.
Children may:
Care for and interact with animals
Explore walking trails and participate in scavenger hunts
Navigate a collaborative low ropes course
Engage in hands-on nature activities that build teamwork and confidence
These camps emphasize choice, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and belonging through shared challenges and outdoor play.
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Art Camps invite children to explore creativity through a wide range of artistic mediums and materials.
Children create with:
Paint, collage, sculpture, and printmaking
Classroom and outdoor studio spaces across the Joy Meadows Campus
With time for both collaboration and independent work, children are encouraged to develop their own artistic voice while experiencing joy, self-expression, and community.
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The High School Weekend Retreat offers teens space to slow down, connect, and recharge in a supportive outdoor setting.
This non-overnight retreat includes:
Guided group activities and creative reflection
Nature exploration and animal interaction
Team-building challenges and water activities
Small-group discussions led by trained facilitators
Teens participate at their own pace while building trust, communication, and a sense of belonging.
How Many Camps Can a Child Attend?
Each child may attend one Outdoor Adventure Camp or Backyard Bible Club session in June, plus one Art or Nature Camp in July.
Each camp page below includes age ranges, dates,
and full details to help families choose the best fit.
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Outdoor Adventure Camp: $25
Art Camp: $15
Nature Camp: $15
High School Weekend Retreat: $15
K–1 Camps: $10
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All registrations include a camp t-shirt, all meals and snacks, supplies, and lots of fun.
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Campers are responsible for bringing their own water bottle and a willing attitude to camp each day! We want them to enjoy this opportunity, and only a limited number of students were accepted to camp.
Campers will also need to bring their own pool towel.
Please Note: Campers do not need to bring a swimsuit or change of clothes. For safety, modesty, and time — all campers and staff participate in the lake activities in their camp clothes each day so there is no changing needed! We allow sufficient time and games to help dry out after any swimming or water activities.
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The camp will be directed by a Joy Meadows staff member. Our trained summer staff will help lead the daily activities and be there for relational connection with each camper.
We will have a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure safety and build relationships of 3:1.
All camp staff have received training in trauma and attachment, the foster care system, animal safety, and first aid. Our amazing volunteers serve as camp counselors for the week and also receive training.
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The Outdoor Adventure Day-Camp takes place on the Joy Meadows property at 12400 170th St., Linwood, Kansas.
Activities will move between facilities at the barn, art studio, and Community Center, which are air-conditioned.
Outside activities will occur at the barn, garden, orchard, and nature trails.
*A water activity will take place off-site at a private lake located 2 miles from the Joy Meadows campus. A lifeguard will be present. A field trip form will be provided for this activity, and any other off-site activities that may take place.
More Details
Jarred Furhman
Campus Director
Email Jarred →
