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Neuro-affirming
After School &
Days Off School Care 

CAYR Camp is for kids ages 5 to 12. 

after school | days-off-school | summer break

CAYR Clubs are for pre-teens and teenagers

grades 5-8 | grades 9-12 

Click on the links above to check out the enrollment page on the Playground app, or scroll down to learn more about our programs! 

About Us

At CAYR Connections, inclusion isn’t just a concept—it’s a culture.

 

Our programs are built on the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are.

 

By embracing a strengths-based, play-centered approach, we create an environment where children can build confidence and connect with peers in meaningful ways, perfect for...​

Image by Alexander Dummer

EXPLORING INTERESTS

Inclusive Painting Activity

LEARNING BY DOING

Image by Luba Glazunova

ACTIVELY

BELONGING

​Our programs are neurodiversity-affirming and sensory-supportive, offering flexible accommodations and supports that empower all children to be an active part of the CAYR community. 

And we're not just for neurodivergent kids. (Remember, neurodiversity includes neurotypical people, too!)

Our inclusion practices are guided by the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), providing multiple ways to interact, express, and experience the day.

CAYR Camp

Summer, after school, and days-off-school programming for 5-12 year olds

What began as a summer day camp is now growing into a year-round recreational program for children between the ages of 5 to 12 years old. ​​CAYR Camp is designed for children who benefit from flexible participation, supportive adults, predictable rhythms, and opportunities for both active play and rest. Children have time and space to decompress, play, create, move, explore interests, spend time outside when possible, and connect with peers in a smaller, sensory-aware environment.

After School

Monday through Thursday until 6:00 PM.

CAYR Camp after school programming gives children a supportive place to land after the school day.

Children will have time to decompress, play, create, move, and connect. Activities may include music, movement, creativity, games, building, outdoor play, sensory-friendly social time, and child-led exploration. We are also working on collaborations to support transportation from local schools.
Visit the application page to view tuition rates and available enrollment options.


Days Off School

Select days when local public schools are not in session, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM

This program is designed for families who need care on school closure days but want a smaller, neuro-affirming, sensory-aware environment. Families may register for individual days based on their school calendar and childcare needs. 

Learn more and apply here.

Summer Break

Early June to mid-August, 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM

CAYR Camp summer programming offers children a playful, supportive, neuro-affirming camp experience with outdoor time, creative play, nature walks, sensory-friendly activities, and interest-based exploration.

Our summer program is for children who want to spend their summer playing, being outside, exploring their interests, and being part of an inclusive neurodiverse community.

Click here to join the Summer 2027 Interest List! 

CAYR Clubs

After school programming for pre-teens and teens 

CAYR Clubs are our afterschool programs for older neurodivergent students who need a supportive, low-pressure place to connect after school. Clubs offers space for homework help, executive function support, creative projects, games, independent interests, and relaxed time with peers. Students are not expected to socialize or participate in one specific way. Our goal is to create a respectful, flexible environment where preteens and teens can show up as themselves.

Grades 5–8

Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays until 6:00 PM.

This program provides a supportive afterschool space for homework help, executive function support, creative projects, games, and relaxed time with peers.

Learn more and apply here.

Grades 9–12

Meets Mondays and Wednesdays until 6:00 PM.

Teens can use this time to work on assignments, get planning and organization support, pursue independent projects, or connect with peers in a low-demand setting. Opportunities for exploring hobbies and vocations will also be available on a rotating basis. 

Learn more and apply here.

Group Learning Session
Group Learning Session

Questions? Send us a message! 

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CAYR Connections is a 501c3 Not for Profit organization founded in the State of Illinois. 

Our EIN is 92-0604554. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. 

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© 2025 by CAYR Connections. All rights reserved.

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