Having Fun in the Sun Amid COVID-19: 5 Tips for Parents

No one could’ve guessed that summer 2020 would look like this. When the Covid-19 pandemic first began to hit the United States earlier this year, everyone tried to stay optimistic that by summer the higher risk of contracting coronavirus would have decreased. We thought we might even have a vaccine by this time. Unfortunately, face coverings and social distancing are still extremely important, which means parents are having to re-think their summer plans. Don’t force your kids to stay inside all summer. Here are five tips for parents who want to keep their kids safe while also allowing them to enjoy their vacation.

Tip #1: Find more fun activities at home.

It’s time to start finding more fun and safe things to do at home this summer. The more time you can spend at home, the less you have to worry about your kids potentially contracting the virus. They won’t have to wear face masks or keep a physical distance. But finding fun activities at home can be a challenge. Now might be the best time to have a swimming pool installed in your backyard. A pool will let your kids cool off and stay active. Since safety is the number one priority this summer, make sure you have a secure pool fence and fence cover installed. A great fence will keep your kids from entering the pool area without an adult and a cover will add even more safety. Bringing the pool to your home is a great way to keep the kids entertained this summer, just make sure that pool safety is your number one priority.

Tip #2: Stock up on fun face coverings.

Naturally, your family will want to venture outside the home at least a few times this summer. If your kids are old enough to wear face masks, you’ll want to make sure you have a good amount. Make it fun for the kids by purchasing masks that show off their personalities. You can find ones with their favorite superheroes or cartoon characters. The kids will be more willing to wear the coverings if they want to show off the characters they like.

Tip #3: Visit popular places on off times.

Now that you have a steady supply of face coverings, it’s time to plan a few outings. Local places like the zoo or the beach are most likely open for visitors, but it’s a good idea to visit during off-times. When it’s 2:00 on a 90-degree day, the beach will be packed. Try waking the family up early and getting there before the crowds arrive. Visit the zoo right before closing when everyone else has already left. Scheduling weird times to visit popular places can also feel fun for your family. Make it a game to beat the crowds and still have fun.

If you’re going on any type of trip or outing, it may be in your best interest to have your entire family undergo Covid-19 antibody tests. Tests like the one from TopLab will test for levels of exposure, which may give you peace of mind when leaving your home for extended periods of time.

Tip #4: Plan a getaway.

A small getaway this summer could be just what your family needs. You’ll have a short vacation to look forward to but you won’t have to worry about braving the crowds at Disney World. You could pick a location nearby for a day trip (maybe a hike you’ve always wanted to do or a trip to the ocean) or rent an Air BNB for the weekend. Don’t let fear stop you from planning a safe and isolated trip. Even if you and the family just stay in a rental the whole weekend, it will feel like a fun getaway.

Tip #5: Be flexible.

More than ever before, it’s important to be flexible and to help your kids stay happy and healthy. Your plans might have to change drastically depending on where you live and the state of current events. Show your kids that it’s possible to go with the flow and make a sudden change. The more flexible you are, the more flexible they’ll become.

Don’t be discouraged by the state of the world. Plan a few fun activities for your family that focus on safety. You can keep your kids and yourself healthy while still enjoying the warmer months.