Summer Camps Are Open for 2021—Here Are the Safety Guidelines to Know

With more and more Americans getting vaccinated—and with life returning to normal, slowly but surely—the guidance around what's safe and what's not is constantly evolving.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided recommendations for what fully vaccinated individuals can safely enjoy after their shots. And while things like getting together with grandparents and traveling are back on the table, the reality is that kids under 12 aren't eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine—yet. Children generally aren't affected as severely, but families still need to follow safety precautions since kids can get COVID-19 and spread it, even if they don't display any symptoms.

That said, there are certainly more things for kids to enjoy this summer—especially once their parents have been vaccinated. And here's some great news: Summer camp 2021 is considered a safe option, with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) saying it's actually beneficial for children as long as proper mitigation measures are taken.

"Kids need to have social activities," says Sara Bode, M.D., medical director at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and executive committee member for the AAP Council on School Health. And, says Dr. Bode, in general, anything outdoors is going to be lower risk. "Organized places like summer camps can be a great way to get them enriching activities in a controlled environment where safety measures can be in place."

Before you sign your children up for a summer program, here's the latest guidance from the CDC and AAP to consider.

General Guidelines for Summer Camps

Guidelines If Everyone (Campers and Staff) is Fully Vaccinated

Guidelines If Everyone is NOT Fully Vaccinated

Dr. Bode recommends proceeding with caution when it comes to families with high-risk children. "Vaccinated parents will want to be sure to mask when around other unvaccinated people. They can still have the possibility of transmitting the virus to their child." But that doesn't mean they can't enjoy summer camp.

According to the AAP, "Children with special health care needs or disabilities, like all children, should have the opportunity to attend camp and greatly benefit from an enriching camp experience. Designing camp activities to be inclusive of children of all abilities is vital for all children to benefit from camp. As a group, children with special health care needs should not be excluded from the camp experience." Camp directors can work with parents and pediatricians to find a scenario that works best.

If you have any concerns or questions about sending your kid to summer camp, it's best to check with your health care provider.

With safety measures in place, camp is a go. "During the summer, it is important that children begin to reestablish connections with their friends, peers, and non-parental adults in an environment that supports their development while also consistently practicing the recommended principles to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2," says the AAP.