Is the end of the COVID-19 pandemic finally in sight? According to Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University, “this summer is going to seem so much closer to normal than we've had in a very long time.” Parents are beginning to reap the rewards of vaccination, and with children ages 12-15 now eligible, we are inching ever-closer to a post-pandemic world. As our children return to summer camps and activities, let’s look at how we can move forward with a fun and safe season. 

CDC GUIDELINES FOR SUMMER CAMPS

Youth and summer camps can play an important role for children. Camps help children build their social, emotional, and physical skills, and provides a structured, safe environment for kids to learn, grow, and develop their capabilities. This CDC guidance is meant to supplement - not replace - any state, local, territorial, or tribal health and safety laws, rules, and regulations with which camps must comply. 

Guidelines include mask-wearing for all campers, staff, and visitors with the exceptions of certain activities, such as while eating, drinking, or swimming. Social distancing guidelines are as follows:

  • At least 3 feet between all campers within a cohort.
  • At least 6 feet between all campers outside their cohort.
  • At least 6 feet while eating and drinking, including among people within the same cohort.
  • At least 6 feet between campers and staff.

Of course, continue to cover coughs and sneezes and handwashing practices.

CDC GUIDELINES FOR MASKS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING
The CDC recently announced that fully vaccinated people do not need to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors except under certain circumstances. Everyone can go without a mask when walking, running, hiking, or biking outdoors and also when attending a small outdoor gathering with fully vaccinated family and friends. Those who are not fully vaccinated should still wear a mask while doing anything indoors that involves contact with people who are not members of your household and also when attending a crowded outdoor event such as a parade or sporting event. 

FUN AND SAFE SUMMER IDEAS

For the feel of normalcy, opt for outdoor activities this summer. It’s low risk and being outdoors is great for your child’s mental and physical health. Here are some ideas:

  1. Hiking offers a range of benefits for children, including exercise, exposure to wildlife, and being unplugged for a while! Find local hiking trails with the AllTrails app. 
  2. A day spent fishing is the epitome of summer. This fun and relaxing activity is sure to become a fond summer memory for your child.
  3. Get out on the water with canoeing, kayaking, boating, or water skiing. Water itself doesn’t spread COVID-19, so as long as you’re six feet away from people who are not from your household, this is a fun and low-risk activity.
  4. Speaking of water, head to the beach and water parks. Just remember to practice social distancing. 
  5. Scavenger hunts are a super fun way to spend an evening. There are tons of printables online for both indoor and outdoor scavenger hunts.
  6. Barbecues, campfires, and outdoor movies can be done in your own backyard. Grab a plate and a cozy throw and settle in for a fun family night.
  7. Summer and picnics go hand in hand. Throw some sandwiches, veggies, and fruit in a basket and head to your favorite park or hiking spot.
  8. The COVID-19 pandemic has launched a drive-in movie comeback with many places now offering drive-in movie nights. Check your local area for outdoor movies near you!
  9. Camping is another summer staple that you can return to this summer. If you’re camping with others, remember social distancing, but you can set up camp at your own home for a totally safe camping experience.

When traveling with children, road trips are still safer than flying, so plan a fun summer road trip with your family; destination anywhere!