Blog

What you need to know about 2022

March 15, 2022

  • “It’s time to start thinking about the importance of your summer.”

    —Craig Ericksen, Program Director

    A Summer of Potential and Adventure

    We are getting geared up for 2022, and we hope you are too! We know you have questions about this summer, and we’re here to answer them.

    Enrollment

    Have you signed up yet? If you haven’t, that’s OK, but don’t wait! We start working on cabin assignments in the late spring, and it’s helpful for us to know your plans. Are you interested in camp but would like information about scholarships? Email Tracy to find out about availability and our process.

    Health & Vaccines at Camp

    One thing we have learned through the pandemic is that we can’t predict what Covid has in store for us. Health and safety are our top concerns at camp. We strongly recommend a Covid vaccination for all camp participants, but it is not required at this time.

    We’re staying vigilant and fluid and working with our health team, (including a pediatric cardiologist and two infectious disease doctors) to help us create policies as necessary. We will inform parents if policies change.

    We require all camp participants receive a negative Covid PCR test within 72 hours of their arrival at camp. You will submit this form on your CampMinder account before opening day.

    If you have any questions about why we have made this decision, please reach out! We are more than happy to discuss this with you.

    Medications at Camp—New in 2022!

    In our ongoing commitment to meet the needs of our campers who require medication while at camp, as well as comply with all the state regulations regarding medication dispensing for summer camps, we require that you:

    • Send all prescription medications—including pills, inhalers, epi-pens, HGH, topical creams, etc. clearly labeled in the original packaging in a gallon Ziploc bag.
    • Please write the camper’s name in Sharpie on the Ziploc bag.
    • The Ziploc bag must contain the Prescription Medication Form, which gives dosage time and quantity. (this form is also in your CampMinder account).
    • All medications brought to camp must be submitted to camp health staff during check-in and must be fully documented on the Health History & Exam in your CampMinder account.
    • A physician must prescribe vitamins (gummy or otherwise).

    Remember, we stock common over-the-counter medications like Ibuprofen and Tums. You do not need to send your child to camp with these medicines. Please call us with any particular concerns.

    Travel to Camp

    If you plan to ride the bus from Chicago to camp, please complete the travel form no later than May 1. Thank you!

    Gear and Packing

    We love gear at Highlands! By following the packing list, your camper will have just what he needs. You can find the packing list on the website and on your CampMinder account.

    Parent’s Handbook

    One of the best things you can do to make preparation for camp go smoothly is to give the Parent’s Handbook a good review. Even if you’re an old hand at Highlands, we’ve updated some things and it might save you a few minutes of wondering or confusion throughout the months leading up to camp. As always, Andy and I are always available for a conversation