For families with children, it’s time to plan for summer camp. After two years of coping with COVID-19, the thought of getting outside and enjoying nature is exciting. That may be why Michigan camps are filling up so fast.
But before enrolling your child in a camp, parents should consider taking some steps and asking questions to make sure they will remain safe.
What to do before registering for summer camp this year
Consider your child’s risk factors. If your child is at least 5 and hasn’t been vaccinated for COVID-19, it’s a good time to get the shot and any recommended boosters. Talk to your child’s pediatrician about questions and concerns you may have about the vaccine. Since many children have gotten behind on routine childhood vaccination schedules, it’s the perfect time to make sure they’re updated.
Discuss with your doctor the pros and cons of sending your kids to camp if they:
- Can’t be or aren’t vaccinated, consider the risks of getting COVID
- Have a weakened immune system
- Have health challenges such as congenital heart disease or asthma that may put them at higher risk of complications if they are infected with COVID-19
Most communities have dropped mask mandates, and it’s nice to see people’s faces, but as COVID-19 numbers continue to rise, it’s still a good idea to have your child wear a mask to help stop the spread.
Here are some questions to ask camp officials for your child’s safety:
- What is the vaccination status of other campers and staff?
All eligible campers and staff ideally should be vaccinated. That includes having all eligible booster doses.
- How will camp staffers screen for COVID exposures or symptoms?
Even if all other campers and staff have been vaccinated, it’s still important for the camp to have a plan to screen campers and staff on a regular basis. For sleepaway camps, appropriate plans should include quarantine, testing, and a procedure to deal with exposure and symptoms.
- Are activities mostly indoors or outdoors?
The more outdoors activities, the better. Indoor activities are safest in open, well-ventilated spaces.
- What is the plan for handwashing?
Regular and thorough handwashing is essential. Ask about the availability of soap, water and hand sanitizer and a plan to ensure campers are washing their hands.
- What’s the plan to sanitize high touch areas and surfaces?
Although it’s more likely to be infected by another person than from a surface or equipment, it’s still important for camp officials to have a cleaning protocol.
- What is the policy for wearing masks?
Wearing a mask for 10 days after testing positive for COVID-19 or being exposed to someone who has is essential for staying healthy. Follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and stay up to date with COVID-19 case numbers in your county and/or the county where the camp is located.
- How will the camp handle mealtimes?
Eating in small spaces and sharing serving utensils can increase the risk of contracting the virus that causes COVID-19. Risk is lower if campers have room to spread out. Make sure the camp has a meal safety plan in place.
We all want the pandemic to be over, but it’s not. Children need the experiences and adventures camp can bring, especially with the disruptions to their education and social stimulation. With proper precautions, your youngest loved ones can be safe and have fun.