Summer camp is a source of fun, social and souvenirs for many children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has provided information to families, clinicians, and camp staff to ensure safe attendance as the pandemic progresses.
With warmer weather returning and more research shows children can go to school safely, parents are starting to think about whether they should send their child to a special part of the summer: camp . To help parents, clinicians, and camp workers make safe choices, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has provided guidelines for attending camp safely during the pandemic.1
What is the benefit of a camp? Camp gives children the opportunity to build self-esteem and good relationships, promote independence as well as leadership, and experience new things. It also provides a way to connect with nature. During the pandemic, it can be a much-needed way for children to spend time with someone outside the home.
What are the safety expectations? Parents should teach or emphasize infection control techniques, such as body speed and masks. Camp leaders should follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for maintaining healthy activity. They should maintain good communication with families and campers about infection control and the procedures for the diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), stay at home if they are ill, or a diagnostic response. Encouraging outdoor activities can also reduce the risk of exposure.
Can all the children go to camp? Families with children at risk of a severe case of COVID-19 should speak to their health care providers before going to camp. Camp leaders should ensure that the necessary equipment is in place for the safety of staff and children.
How are children kept safe? Camps should follow both the American Camp Association Field Guide and CDC camp guidelines. Children attending a camp should be kept up to date with his or her vaccines. Camp leaders should work with the local public health authority to use prohibition, quarantine, and detection processes if necessary.
Are extra safety measures needed for sports camps? Camps should use the AAP COVID-19 Interim Guidelines for Return to Sport and be aware of the rules, regulations and guidelines for camp centers.
Information
1. American Academy of Pediatrics. A guide for families and paediatricians on camp attendance at COVID-19 pandemic. Updated March 22, 2021. Accessed March 24, 2021. https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-guidance/guidance-for-families- and- pediatricians-on-camp-attend-during-the-covid-19-pandemic /