The benefits of a camp designed for children with epilepsy: Evaluating adaptive behaviors over 3 years

ObjectiveChildren with epilepsy attending a condition-specific overnight camp were evaluated for behavioral changes over 3 consecutive years, using a modification of the Vineland Adaptive Behavioral Scale.MethodsTrained counselors completed pre- and postcamp assessments for each camper. Repeated-measures MANOVA was used to analyze effects of the camp experience for each year, with respect to gender and age. Repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted to evaluate long-term effects from year-to-year comparisons for return campers, following three successive camp experiences.ResultsA significant change in social interaction was observed over 3 years. Despite some decline at the start of camp in consecutive years, the overall trend for return campers suggests a positive cumulative impact of continued camp participation, with improvements in the domains of social interaction, responsibility, and communication.ConclusionA condition-specific camp designed for children with epilepsy can improve adaptive behaviors and social interactions. Overall net gains appear to increase over time, suggesting additional benefits for return campers.