Summer is upon us and it’s time to lock in your summer plans if you’re going to plan for a camp or any type of summer activities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) camp guidelines indicate that things are still concerning; as while kids have not gotten sick at the same frequency rate as adults, they can still become infected and many may be asymptomatic which can put the family at risk.
Last summer was certainly a challenge for most, including mom Marcia Braga. “Let’s just say there was no summer. My husband and I had the most challenging task, keeping kids inside our home without them destroying it,” Braga told Mom.com. While the CDC has prevention strategies in place for 2021 summer camps, many parents may opt for other activities to keep kids busy during the summer.
Here are 9 alternatives to summer camp in 2021.
For young kids not yet vaccinated: Virtual summer camps
Try these indoor and outdoor activities during COVID: Museums and zoos
Creating your own pod usually means that you’re working with a couple of other families who share your COVID safety philosophies. Maybe all adults and kids over 12 are vaccinated. Everyone adheres to social distancing rules, uses masks, and has an abundance of hand sanitizer when out and about. If you have a pod, you can create a list of day-trip types of activities to do with the kids.
7. Local museum tour
While most museums closed at the onset of the COVID pandemic, many have reopened with new guidelines to ensure public safety. Be sure to check what guidelines are in place for the museums you will visit. Places like The Getty Museum in Los Angeles will require face masks and temperature checks for anyone coming through. Guidelines will vary depending on where in the country you live and what the mandates and museum policies end up being.
8. Get a zoo pass
It’s hard to get tired of the zoo and this can be a great activity to do multiple times over the course of the summer. Take the time to explore parts of the zoo that you rarely see (because we all have our favorite exhibits) and learn about animals from distant lands. Challenge your kids to find a new animal with every new day that you spend at the zoo.
9. National park tour
A national park might be good for a day trip or a road trip. Depending on your family schedule and where you live, either are great ideas for 2021 summer activities. Take in diverse and breathtaking scenery, hike, and picnic. Challenge kids to learn about different ecosystems that the parks highlight. Best of all, National Parks are a cost effective activity for the family to enjoy.
