surfs up for autism
Surf’s Up For Autism was established in 2012, and today our unique and special event continues to grow every year. One weekend a year in September, families take time out of their hectic lives dealing with Autism, and can just be a family.
It’s a surf weekend in Tofino where people can leave behind their daily grind, and try to forget about the costs and stresses of Autism that burden their families. This event empowers the parents and includes the siblings that often feel left behind.
We are currently looking for volunteers for 2020 Surf's Up event, September in Tofino. Please go to our Volunteer page to sign up!
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Please note applications are currently accepted only from families in Canada.
Registration is now open for Surfs Up 2022 “The Last wave”
Date: September 10th, 2022
Tofino, BC
*register from Feb 13th - Feb 27th, 2022
top faqs about surfs up
WHAT IS SURF’S UP? +
It’s a FREE two-day surf camp for children and families living with Autism. It is a day of surfing, beach games and family fun in an enriching and inclusive environment. Registered families will be assigned to either a Saturday or Sunday surf session, be prepared to stay for the entire day to enjoy all the beach activities and award ceremony for the children at the end of the day.
IS THERE AN AGE REQUIREMENT? +
Your children must be between the ages of 5 to 17 at time of event, be comfortable in the water and are required to wear a wetsuit and lifejacket. If they are uncomfortable with any of these aspects, Surf’s Up may not be conducive for your children.
CAN SIBLINGS ATTEND? +
Yes, siblings ages 5 to 17 years at time of event will be included in the surf day as well.
WHAT DOES IT COST? +
The event itself is free, however families are responsible for their own travel expenses and accommodations in Tofino.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A FAMILY IS ACCEPTED? +
We will contact you with the details if accepted.
CAN WE BRING PETS? +
Service dogs are always welcome, please be aware there are local Tofino By Laws.
where is tofino +
Tofino is on the West Coast of Vancouver Island and the weather can be at times unpredictable. Please be prepared for all weather conditions and we ask you to be flexible with the location of the event and any last minute changes to the day’s schedule due to weather and wave conditions. Safety is our number one priority.
Please note that advance ferry reservations are highly recommended on all routes during weekends. Click here for more information on BC Ferries.
We encourage you to check current road conditions and travel delay information before setting out on the drive to Tofino as there may be construction. Current information can be found on these two British Columbia Ministry of Transportation websites: Drive BC and WWW2.gov
Additional information to help plan your trip can be found on the Tofino Tourism website: https://tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/
what type of support and autism specialists will be there? +
During your child’s surf session, one Behavior Interventionist and one surf instructor will be provided.
WHAT DO WE DO ABOUT THE SURF GEAR? +
Wetsuits and surfboards will be provided by SUPA sponsors at no cost.
DO WE NEED A LIFE JACKET? +
Yes, all families must provide their own Canadian Standards Approved PFD (personal flotation device – life jacket). Your child will not be allowed to participate if a PFD is not provided.
ARE PARENTS REQUIRED TO BE ON THE BEACH? +
Yes, your child must be within arm’s reach when they are not in their surf heat. The open ocean has strong rip currents and can be very dangerous if you are unaware of your surroundings. Please note there is no lifeguard on duty.
