FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 781-533-9398
Email: john@jgpr.net

*Joint Release* Andover and North Andover Health Departments Encourage Residents to Take Advantage of Summer Programs

ANDOVER and NORTH ANDOVER – As the school year begins to wind down and parents and guardians begin to make summer plans, the Andover and North Andover Health Departments are reminding residents of numerous local recreational programs.

Every year, recreational camps for children ranging from sports-based camps to traditional outdoor camps must be inspected and licensed by the local board of health. To be licensed, a camp must meet all the regulatory standards established by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) as well as any additional local requirements.

These regulations are designed to ensure the safest possible conditions for children who attend these programs and include requirements for staff background checks, trained and experienced camp counselors, an appointed health care supervisor, and certain counselor-to-camper ratios. Programs that do not meet the legal definition of a recreational camp for children are not subject to these regulatory provisions.

“Keeping children active when they are out of school for the summer is important for both their mental and physical health,” said Andover Director of Public Health Thomas Carbone. “Consider enrolling your child in a summer program and be sure to check that the camp has been licensed.”

Children can reap numerous benefits from attending recreational programs including increased physical activity, developing creative skills, learning social skills, building their independence, improving thinking and problem solving skills, and gaining confidence.

“Summer programs are great ways to keep children active and social during the summer months,” said North Andover Director of Public Health Brian LaGrasse. “Always make sure to do your research about camps you are considering and call the health department if you have any questions.”

Residents should note that Massachusetts requirements do not affect camps held in New Hampshire and municipal recreation programs are exempt from these regulations. For more information about recreational camps in Massachusetts, download the DPH’s Question and Answer Guide for Families.

The Andover and North Andover Recreation Department offers their own programs that residents can learn more about online. Click here to visit the Andover Recreation Department website and click here to visit the North Andover Recreation Department website. Additionally, there are many academically based programs that do not require licensure, and may be of interest to children.

###