Camp Super stuff was organized with the goal of providing an entertaining and educational summer camp experience.

In addition to asthma self-management, campers are provided with opportunities for trying new activities at their own (often reduced) level of participation. Camp fellowships and informal social interactions in a variety of settings (sports, picnic, nature study, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, crafting, etc.) round out the program. Every summer, Breathe California offers Camp Superstuff, a week-long day camp held within the region served by Breathe California of the Bay Area. Designed for children 6-12 suffering from asthma, Camp Superstuff blends asthma education curriculum with traditional summer camp activities.

Camp Superstuff is dedicated to teaching children about their chronic illness. The camp utilizes interactive teaching methods, such as role-playing activities, games, and open dialogue, to help the children:

• Understand how asthma affects them


• Learn to manage their disease


• Recognize and avoid attack triggers


• Know how/when to take medicine


• Support their peers

Children also engage in traditional activities and excursions. Constant medical supervision allows campers to fully and freely participate in traditional activities such as swimming, hiking, games, skits, arts and crafts, and other exciting adventures. Campers also go on field trips to many local attractions including Great America and the Tech Museum.

Benefits

Children who attend the camp see improvements in school performance, build higher self-esteem and learn to manage their symptoms of asthma. Campers learn to socialize with others who suffer from the same illness, ultimately creating peer-to-peer relationships. By better learning to manage their condition, children experience fewer hospital visits and missed school days.

By participating in traditional activities, children build self-esteem and confidence in their abilities. Children are encouraged to participate in activities at one s own pace and desired level of participation.