*Practice Caution But Get Fresh Air
The weather is warming up and states across the country are getting ready to re-open amongst the Covid 19 virus that has hopefully finally plateaued. To be honest, it’s definitely hard to sit inside day after day and watching the sunshine from just our windows. The struggle of cabin fever has taken over and right now we’re all looking for any sign to help our families get some fresh air.
But, you may still be wondering whether or not it is safe to bring your little ones out to play just yet. Just because states are gradually beginning to re-open doesn’t mean certain precautions are no longer in place. So we should still remain vigilant of those.
Or for those of us who are still being regulated with at home quarantines, its time to get creative about how we can still enjoy the spring season with our families while continuing to practice social distancing and appropriate hygiene practices.
Well….I have compiled a small list of some very fun outdoors activities that are not only Covid safe but friendly and energy depleting for your kids as well. This will provide fresh air for the whole family and get your kids down for a long nap too.
Let’s take a look!
*Fun Spring Time Activities!
1. Pick Your Window and Go For A Walk!
Depending on where you are, this activity will take a little bit of thinking. If you’re in a suburb or more rural area, it is okay to take a walk down your street with your family as these kinds of location don’t tend to be too crowded. I would go at a time you know that the neighborhood is pretty empty, and if you’re still concerned about possible germs then outfit your family with the appropriate masks.
But again, this should be in a less to minimal crowded location. If you’re street isn’t one of those places, maybe drive over to an area of the neighborhood you know is pretty empty, serene, picturesque, and take a 20-30minute walk for some fresh air there.
And if 20-30 mins is all you have time for right now, then a walk is the way to go.
I know in my town in NJ the township has actually closed an entire lane of the main road and allow people to walk there so individuals may practice social distancing too.
2. Bringing Back the Family Bike Ride!
The next fun thing you can do, and I see a lot of people practicing this outside my apartment, are couple and family bike rides. The good thing about bike rides is that because you are traveling at a faster speed then people who are walking or others who are stationary, it is harder for you to possibly catch something in passing. However you should wear protection when necessary.
Also, this is a favorite pastime of all kids! I do not know one person who did not love bike riding as a child. And with the warm weather being thrust in our faces, a lovely neighborhood bike ride might be the perfect afternoon activity.
Especially if you’re living outside of the city, finding bike trails or empty streets or sidewalks are much easier. So take advantage.
And if you do live in the city, go find one of this towns 20-30 mins away and take the kids for a pleasant bike ride. You won’t have the pressure of crowded streets, health concerns, and you’ll be able to enjoy fresh air and nature with your family.
3. Take Advantage of Upstate NY or More Country/Rural Towns and Neighborhoods
The next few activities will involve a car. Now I know it is a privilege to have a car at the moment with the freedom it provides, but even if you don’t it might be the time to consider renting one for a few months until our commuting systems are back to normal.
If you do have a car, this is the perfect time to go for those long drives you’ve always wanted to do! I live right outside of NYC and it’s been so wonderful to escape upstate some weekends when we just want to be outside.
Again, we are looking to practice social distancing and the good thing about driving upstate is that there is so much land and nature, and the towns are few and far between, that questioning the social distancing request isn’t even an issue.
I also want to mention that there are a lot of small businesses upstate that are currently trying to make it through this quarantine period. If you are feeling generous, on your drive you can stop at one or two of these little cheese shops, or wine shops, or olive oil stands and pick something up.
Of course wear your face mask. We also have gloves and use both wipes and hand sanitizers when handling any money or new products. But the little shops will be really happy that you were able to help them out and you come home with some goodies for yourself too.
4. The Isolated Outdoor Picnic Feast!
The next thing, which I used to love doing in central park but that’s not longer an option, is have a picnic!
This is pretty self explanatory. I am sure you’ve had picnics with the family before. Research some place that is wide open with lots of space to alleviate social distancing worries, and have at it!
Again, upstate is great for his because there is so much land!! Pack your trunk full of wonderful lunch items, some games for the kids, and you have yourself a beautiful outdoor day planned with little worries of anything else.
But quick advisory note, please do this in a place that you see has almost no one around. This does not mean find the one patch of grass in front of your building that everyone is trying to sit on, walk by, or ride by, and set up picnic chairs. I’m talking to you people in my building! It shouldn’t take police cars to make you stop congregating.
Safety first please.
5. Finally Do The Hike You’ve Been Telling Yourself You’re Going To Do!
The last item, which I must be honest, I don’t really do, is hike! I know this is a fan favorite of many, especially outdoor enthusiasts. So if you have the time and the means (meaning a car), you can find a hiking trail either by you or far away and take the family for a nice hike in the sunshine.
I would call ahead and see if the hiking trail is open and what their protocol is. But since we are stuck social distancing, a hike is the perfect activity to keep our families moving while practicing appropriate physical boundaries as well.
*Summary
There you have it parents! Five pretty easy and fun ideas to get your family outdoors and enjoying the sun. For the most part we take these small common activities for granted. But now is the perfect time to really participate.
And these are the perfect and simple ideas that will keep your kids happy, laughing, and even get them a little tired in time for nap or bed time. Your welcome :).
Please try and enjoy the spring sunshine! I think we might be going for a drive later too :). Find your secret spot for fresh air and have unconcerned fun with the whole family.
And as always, If you have any questions, comments, or ideas please share them in the comments section below with your fellow parents! And definitely subscribe to the newsletter for updates and ongoing happenings at TylekTeaches.com. The subscription link is just on the right hand side of this post. See you there!
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