A Summer of Social Distancing

As the weather continues to heat up the coronavirus shows no signs of slowing down or letting up anytime soon with over 100,000 confirmed cases in North Carolina and over 4 million confirmed in the entire U.S. With that in mind, our summer plans are certain to change. Gone are the days of large family gatherings and cookouts with our friends. So, what CAN we do this summer while practicing safe social distancing? 

 

1. Go swimming! If you’re lucky enough to have a pool in your backyard or neighborhood swimming is safe and fun! According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no evidence showing that COVID-19 can spread through water. Proper maintenance and disinfection of the pool should kill the virus- just make sure you’re socially distancing and washing your hands! 
2. Go for a hike. Many North Carolina national parks are now open for exploring! You can get outside, experience nature, exercise and get some sun while safely social distancing. If you’ve been feeling cooped up or a little down, getting outside and getting physical can make a world of difference by increasing dopamine and serotonin levels. 
3. Go to the Drive-In. Drive-in movies have made a comeback in recent years and it’s a great way to socialize while social distancing! Meet up with some friends and spend some time together safely! This can be great for the kids who might be tired of just watching Netflix from the couch!
4. Throw it Back! Get nostalgic with your kids and show them some fun things you liked to do during the summertime before the days of electronics and streaming services! This can be great to do with friends, too! Play hide-and-seek, badminton, or put together a neighborhood scavenger hunt! 
5. Start a Book Club! If you’re tired of streaming, and you’ve watched every show under the sun it might be time to go a little old school. If you’re doing a book club with friends, you can meet weekly over Zoom to discuss the book and have a fun happy hour! 
6. Put on A Puppet Show. If you’re trying to get your kids off the couch, try to inspire them to be a little creative and put on a puppet show!

 

In these uncertain times, allowing ourselves to surrender to the unknown and simply change our plans is so important. We hope these ideas help you find some joy in the little things and make some fun memories this summer!