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11 | The IFP -H alton H ills | T hursday,M ay 6,2021 theifp.ca fully) in-person program- ming. "If there's a need in cer- tain locations to do virtual, we will do virtual and other locations that are open will be open in person," ex- plained artistic director Lily Small. The key, said Small, is the ability to be flexible un- der constantly-changing restrictions. "We are prepared either way for in-person or virtu- al, and we may do a combi- nation of both." Milton's Create U is set to offer a backyard camp experience for a second straight year. Counsellors deliver the feel of an on-site camp to families, complete with materials and creative ac- tivities to groups of up to six in their own backyard. "We want to be flexible and give all children the opportunity to participate in camp," said director Cheryl Vrkljan. The idea for the back- yard camp experience pre- dates the pandemic; how- ever, Vrkljan said the need to adapt to COVID pushed the concept forward. If camps can operate in person, the service will still be offered again this year, in addition to the tra- ditional camp. Beyond changes in delivery, anoth- er big change for camps is in the price. With fewer expenses, many camps can offer a lower fee for their virtual sessions, while in-person camp prices have risen in some cases to allow for the purchase of personal pro- tective equipment and san- itation materials. The hope for most camp organizers is that they'll be able to run safely this sum- mer and provide children with as close to normal an experience as possible. "It is so hugely impor- tant that these children get to go to camp this summer because their mental health has really been hit," said Drummond. Camp owners aren't the only ones who hope in-per- son camps run this year. Mother Julie Cole sees camps as an important part of children's develop- ment. "I know with my chil- dren, they really missed it (camp last year). It certain- ly took a toll on their men- tal health, and I think it took a toll on their physical health too." STORY BEHIND THE STORY: With Halton still under strict pandemic restrictions, we wanted to explore how summer camp operators are preparing for the season ahead and how families can expect to terms of programming. - Michael Elioff is a placement student from Fanshawe College. NEWS Continued from page 10 Anna Drummond, owner Fallbrook Trail Ranch, feels more prepared for the summer camp season ahead. Graham Paine/Metroland SCAN THIS CODE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS.