Kids need fun summer activities, and as parents are struggling to keep everyone safe, I’m going to share with you a few ideas on how to keep them entertained and safe at the same time.
It’s so strange we have to rethink how we plan the summer, especially if you have children. How to keep the balance between fun and safety as a parent during a pandemic? Covid-19 makes the planning quite a challenge as we don’t have many options left.
The good news is that we will have more freedom this summer, according to Sean O’Leary, MD, MPH, professor of pediatrics and a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Children’s Hospital Colorado.
“My best guess is that it’ll be better than last summer in terms of what we’re doing, but it won’t be back to what it was like in summer 2019,” he says.
With the traditional camping now off the list, you might feel limited. However, do not fear, I have gathered a few fun activities you can include on your list this summer and all of them are Covid-19 friendly. Without further ado, let’s start with the most important category.
Outdoor activities
Experts can attest that spending time outside is very beneficial for your kids. It is a great way to improve both their physical and mental health. However, doing outdoor activities doesn’t necessarily mean you have to leave the boundaries of your home. If you have a backyard, the following activities are a great opportunity for you and your family.
- Gardening
What a great way to teach your children more about vegetables and healthy food. Show them where the real food comes from, maybe include a few short science lessons while watering the plants. However, you can also plant some flowers, or maybe a tree. Taking care of plants is also a way to make them more responsible and attentive.
- Backyard Camping
This is one of my favorite activities! I remember doing this as a kid and it helps build so many nice memories. My family would either set up a tent in our yard or I would just sleep on an inflatable mattress under the stars (I suggest mosquito repellent spray). If your children are not old enough to camp overnight, set up a tent. Help them feel the little nature surrounding them even if they’ll end up in their rooms for bed.
- A different kind of picnic
Classic picnics are great, but why not make it amazing? You can make the picnic more creative by cooking food from all over the world. Pick a country and make a traditional meal. Enjoy the food while listening to folklore music. For example, you can have a French picnic with croissants, baguettes, and all sorts of cheese and fruits. Pâté to spread on slices of bread sounds delicious, right?
Indoor activities
Although outdoor activities are a must, you still need to think about what to do inside the house. Check out the list below for indoor summer activities.
- Tie dye T-shirts
This is a fun activity you should definitely try with your kids. It helps them express their creativity in a different way than traditional methods. All you need is some dye and elastic bands.
- Theater projects
This is a great opportunity for kids of all ages. Whether you create the script yourself or let your children do it, it is a great way to enhance their creativity and even writing skills. Make the best of the experience by filming the outcome. If your kids like to sing, help them come up with a song or maybe simply host a musical night where you watch a movie together and then create a different ending.
- Art or craft projects
We live in the internet era where we can find so many art projects for kids on YouTube. Pick one that is appropriate for your children’s age and have fun. Just ensure a safe place for them in case it gets messy.