Talisman Programs COVID-19 Updates

We are thrilled to announce that Talisman Summer Camp will be open for the 2020 season!

North Carolina moved into Phase 2 of reopening on May 22nd, with overnight camps permitted to run, following CDC-recommended guidelines.  With the help of a Field Guide created by Environmental Health & Engineering for the American Camp Association, and guidance from our state and local public health departments, we have developed our own comprehensive COVID Prevention and Response Plan.  With these best practices in place, we feel confident that we can continue to provide your campers a fun, nurturing and memorable experience in a healthy and protected environment.

How We Came to Our Decision

While many camps have chosen to cancel in-person programming for 2020, we found that Talisman is uniquely positioned to adapt to the new guidelines.  We have always operated in small groups – camp families or cohorts – largely independent of other groups.  Our campers are always with their staff, and are used to learning and following routines throughout the day.  And our camper:staff ratio (8:3) allows for personal attention to important safety details all day long.  

Why do we choose to run camp in these challenging times?  Because our campers need us; they need time and space for social and emotional growth with additional adults and peers who understand them; and a place that can provide a safe and positive break from a currently stressful world.

What Will Be Different This Summer
We have some new requirements for families, to ensure a healthy environment at camp.  

• Parents will monitor camper health for 14 days prior to camp
• Opening day schedule will be staggered
• Staff will quarantine for our two weeks of staff training
• Cleaning and disinfecting of everything will increase substantially
• Campers and staff will be screened daily by the nurse
• We will emphasize outdoor activities with limited contact
• Meals will be staggered
• Beds will be spaced further apart
• Occasionally, we will wear masks (like when riding on a bus)

If you are Considering Signing up for Camp

Give us a call.  We will discuss your child’s needs as well as your concerns for this summer.  We will share our complete protocols with you and answer your questions.  We will work with you to decide whether this is a good choice for you and your child this summer.  Our top priority is the health and safety of all; whether it’s this summer or next, we look forward to meeting you!

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

American Camp Association, Resources for Parents – https://www.acacamps.org/campers-families/news-resources/covid-19-resources-parents

Association of Camp Nursing, Camp Resources – https://campnurse.org/education-and-resources/covid-19-considerations-for-camp/