As summer approaches, parents across Chicagoland are preparing their kids for the excitement of camp — whether it’s a day program at the local park district or overnight in a lakeside cabin.
While packing the right gear is important, so is getting your child ready for a safe, healthy summer camp experience.
To help families get ready, we spoke with Nishaat Farooqui, MD*, a pediatrician at the UChicago Medicine Medical Group. From her practice in suburban Homewood, she offers practical insights based on the questions she hears most often from parents this time of year.
Use this solution-focused checklist to set your child up for success.
1. Does my child need a special physical before camp?
Answer: Yes. A camp physical is often required and for good reason. It goes beyond the standard school checkup by diving deeper into your child’s cardiovascular and respiratory health and assessing any conditions that could affect their participation in physical activities.
“If your child has asthma or severe allergies, we want to make sure those are well-managed,” says Dr. Farooqui. “A physical can help ensure they’re not missing out just because of a health issue — and that they’re safe while joining in.”
2. What’s the best sunscreen for long days outdoors?
Answer: Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Dr. Farooqui recommends formulas that include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide strong protection with minimal skin irritation — especially for kids with sensitive skin.
Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if your child is swimming or sweating. “Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet (UV) rays can do damage,” she says. “And yes, every kid needs it, no matter their skin tone.”
3. How can I help my child stay hydrated all day?
Answer: “Start early,” says Dr. Farooqui. “Hydration should be a habit before they even step foot into camp.” Aim for at least 40 ounces of water daily, more if they’re doing intense activities outside.”
Make hydration fun by letting kids pick out a reusable water bottle they love. Flavoring water with fruit like berries or slices of citrus is a great alternative to sugary sports drinks. And remember — if your child says they’re thirsty, they’re already mildly dehydrated.
4. Can I prevent swimmer’s ear before it starts?
Answer: Yes — especially if your child is in and out of the pool or lake every day. Swimmer’s ear, or acute otitis externa, is caused by bacteria that thrive in moist environments. Symptoms include pain or a clogged feeling in the ear, and sometimes fluid draining from the affected ear.
To prevent it, use earplugs, gently dry the ears after swimming and avoid letting water sit in the ear canal. If symptoms appear, a doctor’s visit is needed. Antibiotic ear drops are effective but require a prescription.
5. How can I make sure my child is safe around water and during activities?
Answer: Water safety is critical. Dr. Farooqui emphasizes that no child should swim unsupervised, even if they’re confident swimmers.
“Injuries, fatigue or even just horseplay can turn dangerous quickly,” she says. “A trusted adult should always be nearby.”
Talk to your child about following camp rules, listening to staff and asking for help if they feel unsafe. Reinforce that it’s OK to call home if they’re feeling overwhelmed. Camp is a time to grow, but safety and support should always come first.
This content is sponsored by UChicago Medicine Medical Group. Learn more at UChicagoMedicine.Org.
*Dr. Farooqui is a UChicago Medicine Medical Group provider. UChicago Medicine Medical Group comprises UCM Medical Group, Inc. f/k/a UCM Care Network Medical Group, Inc., and UCM Medical Group Sub, LLC f/k/a Primary Healthcare Associates, S.C. UChicago Medicine Medical Group providers are not employees or agents of the University of Chicago Medical Center, the University of Chicago, UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial, or UChicago Medicine Medical Group — Homewood.
