elmhar

Hi Steph,

I have one thought to get out of the way first: IME the nonacademic summer camp may have social benefits for your kids that may actually enhance their eventual academic achievement. Do not underestimate that. And if the motivation to attend is already there, it's a plus. It is much easier to do academic catch-up w/kids at home, than to compensate for lost peer-social opportunities.

Could you use the fun summer camp as a "carrot" for getting the kids to do a little home study each day? Ask their teachers for the "learning goals" -- both longer term objectives & the "little steps" to the larger goals, and as much direction as possible ... ask straight out for home programming. If you need more help, a homeschool special ed consultant could direct you. Or your school district may have someone on hand over the summer if you get stuck. One-on-one w/a child almost always trumps group programs,in terms of progress.

But, if that's just not gonna fly & you're set on the special ed program over the summer camp:

It really helps if your kids understand that you hear what they have to say. I have many times posted a note on our fridge like this: I (Mom) understand that DS feels "_______________________. " Your feelings are important to me, DS! I plan to make this up to you by: 1) 2) 3) .

I realize your children are young, but even a young child can often recognize their name in print (and you would print this, not use cursive). When you call a child over to help you write the note, to give you actual "quotes," it demonstrates your sincerity.

I can't speak for all meltdowns, but sometimes there's an OCD factor that is esp. strong w/disappointments. Recognizing the feeling in writing helps to remind your child that you have not forgotten.

The next step is working together to figure out what exactly will be missed most (from your child's point of view) -- friends? specific activities? special treats? -- and find ways to compensate.

Good luck.