Camp Safety in the COVID Age

With the COVID 19 pandemic lasting so long, many children have been restricted from in-person school and extracurricular activities. That means some children have lacked opportunities for peer interaction. We’re now seeing a significant increase in feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns.

Summer camp won’t be without risk, but it is an important opportunity to reestablish missed connections. With safety measures in place, there will be a small risk
for most. Children with medical conditions should speak with their pediatrician to decide if attending a summer camp is recommended.

Hurley pediatrician, Dr. Gwendolyn Reyes says,

“It’s incredibly important to ask the camps about their health and safety protocols. As a parent, you’ll want to know what will happen if a child does become ill and you’ll also want clarification on what they are doing to prevent spread of infection or if physical distancing will be enforced. Their answers should help you determine if the camp is appropriate for your family.”

 

This year camps are encouraged to cohort children that are not vaccinated. This means your child will be with the same small group throughout camp to minimize exposure. It’s best that all campers in the same cohort keep 3 feet apart at all times, and 6 feet apart when eating.

Following safety guidelines will not only ease your worries, it will create a safe environment for your child to have a fun camp experience.