Summer is almost here! Long days full of sun, free time, and camp fun. With COVID-19 restrictions easing up, now’s the time to make sure you’re prepared. Don’t worry, we’ve got a summer camp health checklist – everything health-wise to make sure the kids are good to go.
1. SCHEDULE A WELLNESS VISIT WITH YOUR PEDIATRICIAN. Many summer camps may require a doctor’s signature. These visits include updating shots – polio, measles, whooping cough, flu, and TB – and checking growth milestones within normal parameters. Doctors will review medical history, record height and weight, and test vision and all major joints for strength and flexibility. They will look at blood pressure, pulse, respirations and oxygen saturation, and review any ongoing medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and allergies.
2. CHECK COVID VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS. COVID’s still a thing, and that means checking camp vaccine requirements. Per the CDC, the recommended steps are to stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines and get tested if your child has symptoms (www.cdc.gov/).
The CDC currently recommends everyone be fully vaccinated (two doses) and an additional booster shot for those 12+. The recommended vaccine is the Pfizer-BioNTech. For kids 5 to 11, two doses 3 weeks apart. The CDC does not recommend boosters at press time. For kids 12+, two doses 3 to 8 weeks apart and one booster (CDC says to get all vaccines and boosters from the same company for ages 12 to 17) at least 5 months after the second dose.
3. SUNSCREEN. Kids know to use sunscreen, but applying it correctly is another challenge. First, choose a mineral sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, is water resistant, and provides broad-spectrum cover against UVA and UVB rays. There’s no specific brand recommendation; most are acceptable so long as they cover the aforementioned conditions. Apply at least 15 minutes before going outside. For hard to reach areas, ask someone for help or use a spray. Make sure to rub the sunscreen in thoroughly – no spots or smears! And last, reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. It’s a good idea to get kids in the habit of applying a layer of sunscreen before dressing in the morning.
4. LIP BALM. Less recognized and popular than sunscreen, a good lip balm is no less necessary in the summer. Make sure to choose one with an SPF of at least 15. Similar rules apply: reapply every 2 hours, or after eating, swimming or sweating. And unless kids want to keep reapplying, choose an unflavored one so there’s minor risk of them constantly licking their lips.
5. SUNGLASSES. Kids all look at the sun from time to time. And even when they’re not, prolonged sun (UV light) exposure can cause retinal damage, cataracts or worse. While hats help, nothing beats a good pair of sunglasses. Ones with a UV400 rating, polycarbonate or polarized lenses and aren’t too dark or too light are perfect for kids. Avoid colored lenses for younger kids still developing their perception of colors.
6. INSECT REPELLENT. Summer camps are feasting grounds for mosquitoes in California. Protect your kids by packing insect repellent, especially if they’re camping near a large body of water. DEET is the most well-known and endorsed by the CDC, but kids with more sensitive skin may prefer picaridin while those looking for a chemical-free choice can go with oil of lemon-eucalyptus (one caveat: apply an emollient such as Vaseline or Aquaphor after showering). To apply, spray into hands and cover all exposed skin, including the head and ankles. Apply over sunscreen. Most repellents last 6 to 8 hours, and always wash it off before going to bed.
7. HYDRATION. In the summer, there’s little else more important than staying hydrated. Educate your kids on drinking water before they leave for camp because it’s the best way for them to stay healthy. While there isn’t a set recommendation for how many glasses of water a day to drink for kids (like they would listen anyway!), do your best to remind them to stay hydrated. Educate them on the common symptoms of dehydration: headache, fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite, and encourage them to hydrate as often as they can.
*These tips were provided by a Salinas-based family medicine doctor who prefers to stay anonymous.
Lisa Wong is a freelance writer, editor and in-house editor and ghostwriter for ArtHouse Literary Agency and LCS Literary Services. She has a background in journalism, having written for Embarcadero Media and The Davis Enterprise before transitioning primarily to book publishing.