As a member of the Stay Home Coalition, my three children and I have been diligently practicing social distancing. However, we all crave a change of scenery now and then, even if it means sending everyone to separate rooms in the house. As an active family that loves outdoor adventures, I’m relieved that the CDC encourages visits to public parks and recreational areas when appropriate precautions are taken.
Access to Vitamin D, fresh air, and physical activity is essential for our mental and physical well-being. However, crowded areas and inadequate social distancing can negate these benefits. Just the sight of packed public spaces makes me anxious. Research has established that the novel coronavirus spreads through respiratory droplets during close contact. It’s important for everyone to be mindful of this!
Common sense is key. If you feel unwell or have been in contact with someone confirmed to have COVID-19 in the past 14 days, stay home.
Planning Your Outdoor Adventure
Before venturing out, it’s essential to have a plan. Determine a location to enjoy nature or allow your kids to explore for a little while. Be aware that some trails, parks, and beaches may be closed; checking websites or local community groups can provide necessary updates.
My children—ages nine and almost seven—have enough energy to light up a small town, while I often feel drained just trying to keep up with them. Outdoor time is a non-negotiable in our home. Our yard and quiet street have been suitable for playing and biking, yet staying confined to our property limits creativity and physical activity. Restlessness sometimes leads to bickering and demands for screen time, but I refuse to give in. While boredom can be challenging, it doesn’t overshadow our gratitude or well-being, and we’ve found ways to safely explore beyond our home.
That said, it often requires some convincing to get my kids excited about outdoor adventures. They may whine when I announce our plans, but with some preparation—snacks, face masks, and a positive attitude—we hit the road.
Choosing the Right Locations
Our favorite trails are currently too crowded for comfort. I learned this the hard way when my kids dashed ahead on a familiar path, and I found myself yelling at them to slow down due to the proximity of other families. Despite our best efforts to maintain the recommended six-foot distance, it was stressful to keep my kids safe and distanced from others.
Stick to nearby locations; social distancing also means limiting travel. This reduces the likelihood of needing to stop along the way, which could increase the risk of COVID-19 exposure. Before heading out, confirm which facilities are open where you plan to go. I recently discovered a park close to home with wide bike paths and nature trails. While amenities like skate parks, water fountains, and restrooms were closed, I packed water and toilet paper in case of emergencies. The CDC also advises bringing hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable.
Safety Precautions
Avoid playgrounds. It may be tough for kids to resist playground equipment, especially after so many days at home, but these areas are high-risk. They attract crowds and are difficult to keep sanitized. The virus can linger on surfaces long enough for one child to contaminate it and infect another.
Only engage with members of your household and remember to wear face masks. The CDC recommends outings with just your family or those you live with. Masks are essential in places where maintaining social distance is challenging, such as narrow trails or bike paths. Outdoor environments generally present lower transmission risks, as studies from China and Japan indicate that the chances of spreading COVID-19 are significantly reduced in open spaces.
Finding Balance
As the weather warms and the urge to escape our homes intensifies, continuing to stay indoors can feel unsustainable. However, distinguishing low-risk from high-risk activities—like outdoor interactions while maintaining distance versus crowded indoor gatherings—can alleviate some “quarantine fatigue.” Health benefits derived from human connection, exercise, and time spent outdoors may outweigh the risks, as noted by Harvard Medical School professor Julia Marcus.
I appreciate the opportunity to get outside. Moving our bodies, inhaling fresh air, and enjoying green spaces are vital. My commitment to walks, runs, and quick workouts in the backyard has kept me sane during this pandemic. Despite their initial reluctance, once my kids are outdoors, they thrive—climbing trees, exploring nature, and enjoying the beauty around them. Time spent outside allows us to reconnect with each other while also enjoying some much-needed space.
Conclusion
With a bit of preparation, it’s possible to safely enjoy the outdoors with your family. Plan your destination, check for crowds, and maintain safe distances from others. Remember to avoid touching shared equipment or signs, and wear masks when social distancing is difficult. And be prepared for nature’s call; restroom facilities may be limited.
This article was originally published on May 14, 2020.
For more related content, check out our post on weaning naturally at Home Insemination Kit. If you’re interested in at-home insemination methods, BabyMaker at Home Insemination Kit is an excellent resource. For further information on success rates, visit WebMD’s guide on IUI.
In summary, outdoor family activities can be safe and fulfilling with careful planning and precautions. Choosing low-risk locations, adhering to safety guidelines, and maintaining a positive attitude can help you and your family enjoy nature while staying safe.
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