School is finished for the year, and, while the start of summer is typically an exciting time for kids, this summer is turning out to be pretty different than what many of us had in mind. While some camps, sports and other activities may not be happening this year, there will still be plenty of opportunities for kids to enjoy the summer and have fun. Some camps are operating, with social distancing modifications, while others have moved online.

• Whatcom Kid Insider has consolidated a list of camps and classes that are available this summer, as well as a daily activity calendar.
• Whatcom Kid Insider also has a list of hiking trail websites and biking trail websites.
• The City of Bellingham has information about what activities and athletic facilities are open in each Phase.
• The Whatcom County Library System and Bellingham Public Library are holding their summer reading challenge, which offers prizes for kids who complete a book bingo card.
• Bellingham’s Parks and Rec Department is offering a Camp at Home program.
• Majestic Adventures is offering online Adventure Quest camps with the hope of returning to in-person camps later in the summer.
• The NW Fair is going virtual! Check out their virtual fair activities to see how you can still go to the fair without leaving your house. 

Informal Gatherings

While Whatcom County is in Phase 2 of the Safe Start plan, gatherings of up to five people from different households are allowed. Kids can visit and play with friends, but they should continue with their healthy habits, including:

• Wearing a mask.
• Maintaining physical distance.
• Washing their hands well and often.
• Avoid sharing food or drinks.
• Staying outdoors as much as possible.
• Staying home and away from others if they feel sick.

We know it can be frustrating, especially for older kids and teens, but gatherings should be kept small. Our county is experiencing a number of outbreaks related to large social and recreational gatherings, which may jeopardize our ability to move to Phase 3, or may require us to increase social restrictions. It will take a community-wide effort to ensure that we can meet the requirements to move to Phase 3. We must keep ourselves and each other safe, and do everything we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19.