A Scoping Review of Camp Activities for Children with Developmental Disorders

The growing number of children diagnosed with developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and learning disabilities, poses increasing challenges for social inclusion and support systems. Among various support interventions, nature-based camp activities have attracted attention for their potential to provide multifaceted benefits. This review aimed to clarify the value and effects of camp activities for children with developmental disorders, their families, and staff, based on contemporary perspectives that reflect changing views on disability and human-nature relationships.

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines, literature searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Ichushi-Web, CiNii, and J-Stage, without restrictions on study design or publication year. Eligible studies described camp activities for children (0-18 years) with developmental disorders in natural environments and were published in English or Japanese. Methodological quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data extraction covered study characteristics, participant profiles, and reported outcomes, which were synthesized narratively.

Eighteen studies (15 Japanese, 3 English) met the criteria. Reported benefits included reduced anxiety, enhanced self-confidence, self-efficacy, social skills, and an increased sense of belonging. Parents experienced respite and improved family functioning. Staff and volunteers reported personal growth and a deeper understanding of disability. Natural environments were described as providing sensory stimulation, adventurous experiences, and temporary release from daily constraints, aligning with the social model of disability.

This scoping review revealed that camp activities in natural settings hold promise as a unique integrative approach that bridges social and ecological perspectives.