As we all adjust to the reality of COVID-19 in our midst, social distancing has become the phrase to define how we live our lives. A better term would be physically distancing, because none of us should distance ourselves from our circle of family and friends, even when we can't physically be together.
After watching Gov. Northam's address from Friday, March 27, 2020, our site will focus on things you can do at home. Although we're not officially 'on lockdown,' it's strongly recommended that we all do our part and stay home. Please watch the governor's address (included in this article) for updates about the impact of COVID-19 here in Virginia. Gov. Northam: "You Need to Stay Home"
Social media is a great option for teens, but not so much for younger kids. Here are 10 ways for kids of all ages to stay connected with family and friends when you can't be together physically.
1. FaceTime is one of the most popular apps to connect with family or friends, but you need to use an iPhone or iPad. Reach out and say HI!
2. WhatsApp is very similar to FaceTime; however, it works across all platforms: Android, iPhone, Mac, or Windows PC.
3. The Zoom app is perfect for large groups of friends and big families. It's free, so just download and send invites to your besties.
4. Text messaging is what most of us use daily to stay in touch with family and friends. Let your child create a group chat with all of their school friends to stay in touch.
5. Use your phone the old fashioned way. Make a call and make someone's day. This is a great way to stay in touch with grandparents or relatives who may have older phones.
6. Write a letter or send a card. It may take a few days to get there, but your friends and relatives will love seeing your child's handwriting and a personal message.
7. Send an email. Set up a free email account for your child to keep in touch with friends or relatives one -on-one or set up a family or friends group email chain.
8. Play a video game together. Roblox, Fortnite, Super Mario Brothers, Minecraft, and Pokemon Sun and Moon are all good choices for kids of various ages. Make rules ahead of time to avoid problems later: only real life friends, no chat, etc.
9. Plan a neighborhood scavenger hunt. Ask other families in your neighborhood to hide a stuffed animal in plain sight in their front yards, then take turns walking the neighborhood as a family to find them all.
10. Check the Lynchburg Macaroni Kid calendar. Although public events are off-limits right now, there are lots of virtual events your child can 'attend' with friends and enjoy together.
Don't let social distancing stop you from enjoying time with family and friends. Although experts recommend spending physical time with only those who live in your home, technology makes it easy to stay connected from a distance.
COVID-19 Resources
Need help talking to your kids about COVID-19? Talking To Your Kids About Coronavirus
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers the following guidelines to help keep you and your family safe from an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus which has been detected in more than 100 locations around the world, including in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease caused by the virus is named “coronavirus disease 2019” and abbreviated “COVID-19”.
CDC Guidelines
"Take everyday preventive actions to stay healthy.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
Stay informed. CDC’s COVID-19 Situation Summary will be updated regularly as information becomes available."
You will find updated information about COVID-19 at Center for Disease Control (CDC)
We're Here to Help
This is a rapidly changing situation and it's impossible to keep up. Nearly all local events have been canceled, nearly all indoor play places have closed, and many restaurants and retail stores have reduced service or closed temporarily. We will share any new cancellations on our Facebook page as quickly as possible; however, please check with the venue before attending any event including events for which you have already purchased tickets.
As always, we'll have new articles published in our free newsletter and on our website every week with crafts, recipes, boredom busters, and other ways to entertain your kids and keep them busy! Let Lynchburg Macaroni Kid help you Find Your Family Fun® in Lynchburg, Central Virginia, and in the comfort of your own home.
