A Healthy
SUMMER HOW TO MAKE SURE THE KIDS STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY AT CAMP
©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / FATCAMERA
By ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE
A
fter the past two years of uncertainty, kids need summer camp more than ever. It’s an opportunity to meet people and learn about everything from canoeing and woodworking to cooking and archery. Camp is good for kids’ mental health, too. “Camp helps kids build emotional resilience and independence because they get outside of their comfort zones to try new things,” says Todd Rothman, co-owner and co-director of Deerkill Day Camp in Suffern, New York. “It’s especially important now because kids have lost a year or more of social development and have spent a
BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2022 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY
lot of time by themselves. Camp gives us a chance to be together and have fun without the pressures of school.” Whether it’s day or sleepaway camp, here’s how to get your kid ready:
SCHEDULE A WELLNESS VISIT
Kids need checkups before starting summer camp, and camp health forms must be filled out by your pediatrician and turned in before camp starts. “Book an appointment right away, especially if your child is behind on immunizations,”
13