Summer can be a difficult time for parents in normal times. Our kids get lazy and uninspired and want to spend whole weeks playing video games and binge-watching Netflix. As parents, we beg, plead, threaten, and bribe them to get outside and do something to various degrees of success.
In the time of COVID-19, quarantine and social distancing, though, it’s never been harder to get kids to put the electronics down. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Parents are just having to be a little more creative. Here are some safe, socially distant things you can encourage your kids to do to make the most of their summers.
1. Virtual Camps/Virtual Summer Enrichment
If you can’t get them to give up the electronics, at least convince them to use them for something useful. Normally, in the summer, many organizations provide summer camps and workshops for kids. This summer, most of those have been moved online via apps like Zoom, Google Classroom, and others. Encourage your child to sign up and participate in these.
2. Throw a Pool Party
In many states, the restrictions on gatherings have been relaxed, allowing for up to ten people from different households to spend time together, especially outdoors. Summer’s the perfect time to throw a pool party. You can do this at your own house or at a public pool if you want to rent it out for a few hours. Send pool party invitations online and have people RSVP so you know how many to expect. Keep the guest list to under ten people, encourage them to bring their sunscreen and snacks, and sit back and watch your kids have a great time outdoors.
3. Go on a Family Hike and/or Camping Trip
Even in states where social distancing guidelines haven’t been relaxed, people are still allowed to spend time with people inside their own households, and getting out in nature is always encouraged. Pack a picnic basket, grab some bug spray, and take your kids on a hike. You’ll be safely away from people and be out, getting some sun, fresh air, and exercise.
If you have a free weekend and a secluded place to camp, pack a tent and some sleeping bags and go camping with the family. There are some campgrounds open to campers as long as they stay in designated areas. There are also places renting out yurts to campers who want a little upgrade on the basic camping trip. Finally, there’s always the option of camping in your own backyard. This is especially nice if you have younger children.
4. Send Them Geocaching
For a geocaching adventure, all your children need are phones with GPS capability, geocaching coordinates, and a way to get around. Your kids can go with older siblings or you can take them. It’s a great way to have fun, bond, and get out in nature. Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of going treasure hunting?! Geocaching gets kids out of the house, into nature and is actually very educational and fun. Plus, it doesn’t involve physically interacting with others.
The key to having a great summer is keeping your kids involved and not letting them fall into the ‘tv, video game, sleep, eat, repeat’ rut. Add a little variety to your children’s days by getting them up, involved, and out of the house. COVID-19 doesn’t have to ruin anyone’s summer.
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