A parent’s guide to preparing for your child’s first Nature Moves camp. Learn what to pack, how to prepare emotionally, and ease separation anxiety.

Explore how nature play supports sensory regulation. Learn why fresh air, natural textures, and open spaces calm the nervous system in children.

Discover how outdoor adventures help autistic children build confidence, resilience, and independence through nature-based activities.

At Nature Moves, we understand that every child is unique, especially when it comes to managing emotions, sensory needs, and daily transitions. Whether it’s attending school, heading to camp, or simply going on a day out, having a thoughtfully prepared everyday bag can make a world of difference for autistic children or those with sensory and emotional regulation needs.

At Nature Moves, we know that every child experiences the world in their own unique way, and for neurodivergent children, sensory experiences can often be more intense, unpredictable, or even overwhelming.

At Nature Moves, one of the things we’re most proud of is that our camps are completely device-free. That’s right—no phones, tablets, gaming consoles, or screens. Why? Because we believe in helping kids reconnect with themselves, with others, and with nature—without distractions.

For many families, school holidays are a chance to relax and take a break from the everyday rush. But for children on the autism spectrum, this shift in routine can feel confusing, overwhelming, and even distressing.

Your child’s first trip away from home is a big step, for both of you. Whether it’s a school holiday camp, overnight nature adventure, or a weekend away with friends, it can feel equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking.

At Nature Moves, we believe that some of the most powerful moments in life aren’t planned, they happen between the adventures, in the laughter around the campfire, the quiet reflections on a forest trail, or the look of pure joy after conquering a new challenge.

When most people think of school holiday camps, they imagine wide-open spaces, laughter-filled adventures, and kids making memories in the great outdoors.

One of the most magical parts of our school holiday camps is witnessing the friendships that blossom among campers, friendships that often last far beyond the end of the week.

Few experiences rival the sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a new skill, conquering a fear, or achieving a personal milestone.

At Nature Moves, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, explore, and gain confidence in who they are. For autistic kids, building independence can be both empowering and transformative, opening doors to new experiences, building self-esteem, and nurturing lifelong skills. That’s why our school holiday camps are carefully designed to support and celebrate self-reliance in a safe, structured, and joyful environment.

At Nature Moves, we believe that building strong, capable minds is just as important as encouraging healthy bodies. One of the core life skills we focus on during our school holiday camps is problem-solving, because when a child learns to solve problems, they build resilience, independence, and confidence in their own abilities.

At Nature Moves, we believe that the beauty of the outdoors provides the perfect setting for autistic kids to explore, grow, and build meaningful connections.

At Nature Moves, we believe that nature is not just a backdrop, it’s a dynamic playground that offers endless opportunities for growth, discovery, and healing.

At Nature Moves, we understand that autistic kids thrive in environments that are predictable, structured, and tailored to their unique needs. Our school holiday camps are designed with this in mind, ensuring that every camper feels safe, supported, and empowered to explore and enjoy nature. Here are some of the key techniques and accommodations we use to create a comfortable experience for all campers.

Camp experiences can be life-changing for children, offering them opportunities to grow, build independence, and develop new skills. However, the transition back to home life can be a significant adjustment. As parents, you play a crucial role in helping your child smoothly reintegrate while encouraging them to maintain the positive habits and routines they picked up at camp.