How the Pandemic Will Affect Summer Programs?
Chicago Park District program leaders and workers pose for a picture outside their work facility. Photo from Chicago Park’s Instagram account.
As the academic school year comes to an end and many parents return to work in Phase Three of the Restore Illinois plan, some parents may wonder what summer programs will look like amidst a pandemic.
Here are what some popular Chicago summer programs plan to do:
Screenshot of the YMCA summer web page intended to provide information on changes this summer because of COVID-19.
The YMCA will be offering 17 online speciality summer camps for parents to enroll their children. Although the YMCA has been known for their in-person camps, the organization says their new online camps are an opportunity for children ages ranging from five to nine years old to explore their specific interests during this pandemic. Campers will be able to develop their interests in being an artist, chef, tinkerer, famous writer, or dancer. As for their in-person camps, the YMCA plans to open June 15; however, the non-profit organization warns that date is subject to change based on government mandates in the pandemic. Campers can expect changes to the summer programs in order to prevent the spread of the virus. Some of the new changes include reduced group sizes, face masks requirements for both staff and guests, temperature checks, increased handwashing throughout the day, no physical contact activities, and no family-style meals.
Screenshot of Boys and Girls Club of Chicago’s website explaining their new online club for members.
The Boys and Girls Club Chicago has yet to announce a date to reopen its facilities for this summer. Since the club has been officially closed since March 13, the staff members have launched virtual programming called “A Club For Home.” The goal of their online club is to continue to connect the youth to mentorship and engaging activities during this pandemic. During these online programs, the organization has decided to thank and celebrate first responders and essential workers. In addition to their virtual C club For Home program, BGCC plans to continue to provide nutritious meals and wellness checks to children.
Screenshot of Chicago Park District Day Camp web page with updates on services because of COVID-19.
The Chicago Park District, which canceled its spring 2020 programming, decided to push back its Summer Day Camp registration to June, Thursday, June 11 at 9 a.m. for parks west of California Ave. Subsequently, Friday, June 12 at 9 a.m. for parks east of California Ave. will allow registration for their area. Furthermore, gymnastics centers will begin registration June 12 at 12 p.m. Chicago Park District officials have stated that if the parks are able to open up on the tentative date of July 6 then the programs will follow the CDC and government guidelines implementing safety measures such as social distancing and hand washing. It is unclear if that also will include requiring staff and all program participants to wear masks while at facilities.