By Liza Ibrahim, LPC

As COVID-19 vaccination rates rise along with the emergence of new variants, we are planning our summer activities and getaways in a whole new way. To help you and your family enjoy a safe and fun summer, we have created a list of helpful tips to help you navigate during this tricky time. 

If you plan to travel with family members, you can reduce your risk of COVID-19 infection by following these tips:

• Choose short road trips in a private vehicle with family members. Bring your own food for fewer stops along the way
• If you have to travel by plane, try to take a flight with no layovers, and go straight to the gate
• Avoid long-distance bus trips and cruises
• If possible, choose a private rental home over multiunit lodgings like hotels
• Choose takeout, drive-thru or curbside delivery over restaurants or self-service buffets
• Pack extra supplies, like hand wipes and sanitizer, and use them regularly
• Stay informed about infection rates in the area you’re traveling to and be prepared to change plans if they increase

Social interaction plays an important role in a child’s development, and the isolation and loneliness caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have had a detrimental effect on many children’s mental and behavioral health. Consider these helpful tips when setting up playdates for your children:

• Host one-on-one play dates rather than gathering in groups
• Keep the total number of contacts your child has (outside of your immediate household) small  
• Keep play dates outdoors, if possible 
• Encourage activities that require kids to move around and support physical distancing, such as a bike ride with a friend 
• Schedule play dates outside of mealtimes and avoid shared snacks 
• Wash hands or use hand sanitizer regularly 
• Swimming in a backyard pool with siblings or a few close friends is safer than a large community pool 
• Sprinklers are another fun option for kids who want to cool off

Summer camp is an important experience for many children. This summer, it may be particularly important because children have experienced a disruption in their social, developmental and educational experiences. The following tips can help provide some feedback on summer camp safety:

• Plan transport to and from camp to avoid crowded buses or cars
• Remind your child to keep their mask on during carpool or any other shared transport
• Provide a daily lunch for your camper to avoid shared food
• Encourage your child to wash his/her hand frequently and to carry hand sanitizer

Whether you decide to soak up the sun at home, fly across the country, visit family, or have some quality alone time, remember to enjoy this summer by being in the moment and making some memories!