Discovery Program · Ages 6–7 · ACA Accredited
The Summer Camp for Kids with Autism
as Young as Six
Talisman's Discovery program is a neurodivergent summer camp for young children ages 6–7 — built on consistency, compassion, and the right peers from day one.
Discovery Program · Ages 6–7
A Summer Camp for Kids with Autism
Designed for Your Youngest Child
Sending a 6 or 7-year-old to overnight camp is a big decision — especially when your child has autism, ADHD, or a learning difference. At Talisman Camps, our Discovery program was built specifically for this moment.
Discovery is our introductory summer camp for kids with autism and ADHD ages 6–7. Everything about it — the group size, the pace, the activities, the staff — is designed to make your youngest child feel settled, seen, and ready to grow.
- Small, nurturing peer groups matched by age and profile
- Staff trained in autism, ADHD, and social anxiety
- Consistent daily routines that reduce anxiety
- 7-day session — the perfect first overnight camp experience
The Discovery Program
A First Camp Experience
Built to Go Well
Discovery runs during Session 4 — a 7-day program that gives young campers a genuine taste of everything Talisman has to offer. It's designed as an introduction: structured enough to feel familiar, adventurous enough to feel exciting.
As a true neurodivergent summer camp for young children, Discovery emphasizes consistency and compassion above all else. Your child will be grouped with developmentally similar peers — kids who communicate and connect the same way they do — so that every interaction builds confidence instead of frustration.
Foundational skills in social communication and conflict resolution are woven into every activity — not taught in a classroom, but practiced in the real moments of camp life.
What Your Child Will Do
A Full Week of Adventures
Built for Young Kids
Every activity in Discovery is selected because it's engaging, age-appropriate, and builds real skills — without ever overwhelming a young child.
Hiking
Easy nature walks through the Blue Ridge Mountains — building curiosity, stamina, and a love of the outdoors.
Arts & Crafts
Creative expression in a low-pressure setting. A natural way for young kids to connect with peers and communicate.
Technical Tree Climbing
Arborist-style climbing in the forest canopy. One of Talisman's most beloved activities — even for the youngest campers.
Kayaking
Gentle on-water paddling with full staff supervision. Builds coordination, focus, and a huge sense of accomplishment.
Lake Activities
Inflatable lake jumping and water play — pure fun that gets kids laughing, moving, and making friends naturally.
Campfire Gatherings
Evening campfires, team games, and group traditions that give young campers a warm sense of belonging every night.
Why Talisman at Ages 6–7
Why Parents Trust Us With
Their Youngest Campers
Sending a young child with autism or ADHD to overnight camp takes trust. Here's what makes Talisman different for this age group.
Developmentally Matched Peers
Your child won't be grouped with older kids or kids with very different profiles. Discovery campers are matched by age and developmental stage so every friendship feels natural.
Trained Staff, Always Present
Every counselor is professionally trained in autism, ADHD, and social anxiety — plus CPR and Wilderness First Aid. Your child is never without someone who knows exactly how to support them.
Consistent Daily Routine
Young neurodivergent children thrive on predictability. Discovery is built around a consistent daily rhythm that reduces anxiety and helps kids feel at ease enough to try new things.
The Right First Experience
7 days is the perfect length for a first overnight camp. Long enough to build real friendships and confidence. Short enough that it never feels overwhelming.
Parent Communication
You'll never wonder how your child is doing. We keep parents informed throughout the session so you can relax knowing your child is in good hands.
ACA Accredited Since 1980
Talisman has been running specialized programs for neurodivergent youth for over 40 years. This is what we do — and we've been doing it longer than almost anyone.
"Many of our Discovery campers come back year after year — moving through our programs as they grow. For a lot of families, this first week at ages 6 or 7 is the beginning of something that changes everything."
Discovery Only Runs Once Per Summer
The Discovery program runs during Session 4 only — and spots fill up fast. If your child is 6 or 7 years old, this is the one session designed for them. Don't wait.
Ready to Give Your Child
Their First Great Summer?
Call us at (828) 697-6313 or apply online. We'll walk you through everything and make sure Discovery is the right fit for your child.
Contact us to learn more