While dealing with the effects of alopecia can be troubling for adults, children face a much more intense reaction to alopecia, including high levels of anxiety and depression. Luckily, over the years, alopecia foundations and support groups have banded together to help children with alopecia come to terms with this disorder and meet other kids who are also dealing with alopecia.
The result of these efforts are three camps that cater to children with alopecia by offering fun activities, while helping them learn more about the autoimmune disease and meet others who are dealing with similar issues.
Children’s Alopecia Project – The Children’s Alopecia Project (or CAP) is a nonprofit that focuses on raising awareness of alopecia, and providing support for those children and their families.. Their summer camp, Alopeciapalooza, is a four day overnight camp for kids, siblings and parents that focuses on building self-esteem.
Camp Discovery – Camp Discovery is a camp produced by the American Academy of Dermatology, held each year in cities across the US (in 2013, they’ll be in Crosslake, MN; Carnation, WA; Burton, TX; Millville, PA; Hebron, CT). It caters to kids with chronic skin conditions, including alopecia, and has dermatologists on staff, as well as camp counselors who also have skin conditions.
Be Bold Camp – The Be Bold Camp takes place across the pond, in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. The three day event hosts a talent show, along with group activities to build confidence and help children with alopecia make friends, and share advice and support.
