Fun in the Sun
Written by Jennifer Mandato, MA LAC
Let’s face it, 2020 has been a whirlwind of events and emotions. Most of us are reaching the point of the year where we have become just a little stir crazy sitting in our homes. Our kids have been home for months with everything being closed and not much besides their screens to occupy them. As we are in the heat of summer we are seeing more things open up, giving us a few more activity options we can do with our kids safely. Below are just a few ways to enjoy some family fun this summer into fall. As always, safety first! Remember your masks, hand sanitizer, wipes and maintain social distancing!
Enjoy your local parks
Local recreational parks as well as county parks are now open where you and your family can enjoy the outdoors at a safe distance.
Discover a new hiking trail. This could also be another opportunity for family conversation either while walking or while having lunch in the park. Here is a resource to help locate trails in your area: https://njtrails.org/
Have a daily family walk. This is a great opportunity to talk about everyone’s day.
Take a family bike ride
Have a family picnic in the park.
Explore local farms
Many area farms have pick your own seasonal fruits and vegetables. Their websites allow you to make reservations to purchase tickets in advance. This allows them to limit the number of families they have at their farms at one time. You can then take these items home and prepare these foods with your kids in the kitchen.
Create in your own backyard
While it is not always possible to bring your kids out to engage in activities every day, they always have access to their yard. I have noticed in my neighborhood kids having front yard social distance picnics with friends or create obstacle courses around their house. These allow your kids to be social, active and safe. Plan a campout on a clear night and observe the stars and tell stories. Don’t be afraid to get messy in those rainy day puddles! Plant a garden for your children to tend to and watch grow. Plan a family game day tournament.
Whatever it may be that your family enjoys, take this time to savor every minute!