Camps, Sports & Rec Programs: What Parents Need to Know About Summer Immunizations
- Dr. Molly Austen, DO
- July 2, 2025
Summer’s almost here — which means kids are signing up for sleepaway camps, neighborhood rec programs, and team sports galore. But before the car is packed and the water bottles are filled, there’s one critical piece every parent needs to take care of: making sure your child is up to date on their immunizations.
Whether it’s a weeklong camp or a season of soccer, many programs require documentation of a physical and a current immunization record. And, even if it’s not required, keeping your child protected from preventable illnesses is one of the best ways to help them enjoy a safe, healthy summer.
Why Are Summer Immunizations So Important?
When kids are in close quarters — sharing cabins, locker rooms, sports equipment — infections spread quickly. Immunizations offer proven protection against highly contagious illnesses like measles, mumps, chickenpox, meningitis, and more.
Plus, getting your child immunized before summer activities:
- Reduces the risk of illness that could cancel their plans
- Prevents disease outbreaks at camps and community events
- Keeps your family and other kids safe
- Ensures compliance with many program and school requirements
Think of it as one of the most important steps in your summer planning checklist — right up there with buying sunscreen and packing bug spray.
What Vaccines Might Be Needed?
The vaccines your child needs depend on their age, medical history, and previous immunizations. But here are some common ones that are typically reviewed during a camp or sports physical:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- DTaP/Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Polio
- Hepatitis A and B
- Meningococcal
- HPV
- COVID-19 and flu vaccines, when recommended
Not sure what your child is due for? No problem. During your office visit, our providers will review their medical records and give you clear guidance on what’s needed.
When Should I Schedule My Child’s Appointment?
The sooner, the better. Summer is one of our busiest seasons — and appointments fill up quickly, especially once schools let out and camp deadlines approach.
We recommend scheduling your child’s sports or camp physical at least a few weeks in advance. This gives you plenty of time to complete paperwork, get forms signed, and ensure all immunizations are up to date.
You can request an appointment online right now to secure your spot!
What Forms Do I Need?
Most camps and sports programs require a health history form, physical exam form, and immunization record. You may also need documentation of any allergies, medications, or special health needs. To make things easy, we’ve put together a helpful Forms page where you can download and complete the documents needed before your visit.
Tip from the office: Bring all required forms with you to your appointment so we can fill them out and get everything signed during your visit!
What Happens During a Camp or Sports Physical?
At your child’s office visit, our providers will:
- Review your child’s medical history
- Perform a head-to-toe physical exam
- Assess fitness for physical activity
- Review vaccination records and administer any needed immunizations
- Complete any program-specific forms or documents
It’s quick, thorough, and designed to give your child the green light for a fun and healthy summer.
Summer-Ready Starts Here
At Fairport Pediatrics, we’re here to help you take the guesswork out of summer prep for your family. From immunizations to camp physicals, our team provides trusted, compassionate care to keep your kids safe, active, and ready for everything the season brings.
If you have questions, visit our Contact Us page — or just give us a call. We’re happy to help walk you through the process!
