Many children with ADHD, non-verbal learning disabilities, or Asperger's struggle with executive functioning. Their challenges with organization, time management, strategizing, and paying attention often lead parents to choose a school or camp as the best option for their child. After all, residential camps or schools offer an excellent opportunity for students with special needs to practice independent living, personal responsibility, and much more.

A lot of effort goes into getting ready for camps, boarding schools, or other residential programs. Since families spend so much time and energy finding the right program for their child, many parents wonder what they can do to get their child off on the right foot. One of the most important things you can do is provide your child with the right supplies, organized in the right way. If children are practicing organizational skills, they need to start off with a clean slate.

Before your child leaves for school or camp, there are several steps you can take:

1. Pack the right gear/clothing.
   Many schools, camps, and other special needs programs have fairly specific lists of appropriate gear and clothing. These lists usually are mailed home with the welcome packet that most camps and schools send out upon acceptance. Generally, the programs have specifically designed these lists to suit the structure of the program. Try not to pack more or less than the program recommends. If you have questions, feel free to call or e-mail the admissions department. They are usually happy to help.
2. When in doubt, label it ... but label it wisely.
   Different programs have different policies on what, if anything should be labeled. In general, programs will encourage some labeling, particularly for younger children. Check the parent handbook for specific information about what is acceptable or encouraged. If you are the parent of an adolescent, your teen may be concerned about the labels being seen by his peers. Some creative problem-solving can alleviate this concern, while still enabling your child to keep track of his possessions. For instance, when packing shoes, try labeling the inside of the tongue, using a permanent marker. Also, when buying clothes, keep an eye out for stylish, unique outfits that might be more easily identifiable. Be sure to involve your teen in the process. While coming up with strategies can be a challenge, labeling is often one of the most important things you can do.
3. Provide organizational supplies.
   Even the most well-intentioned child will struggle with organization if she does not have the tools for the job. Whether those tools include the right foot locker or an appropriately sized hygiene bag will depend on the program and the facilities at the program. What's important is making sure the child has the supplies necessary to organize their belongings within the space they are given. For example, many camps require foot lockers for the cabin. A duffel bag will not necessarily be an adequate substitute, as it is more difficult to keep clothes folded in a duffel bag. If you are not sure about the space constraints in your program, you should refer to the gear list, or contact the program directly.
4. Leave valuables at home.
   While most residential schools and camps have procedures in place to help your child stay organized, no system is perfect. The occasional missing sock or broken watchband can happen while your child is away. Leave those family heirlooms at home!