Are your children struggling with social distancing? Some fun ideas to reconnect
For many, the Easter holiday is usually a break from school — a time of trips to the park and the beach or having fun at home with family. This year is really different.
Many children are missing the structure of being at school; they are also missing the regular fun together with friends. The usual opportunities for social connection are no longer available — out-of-school activities are no longer in place, play dates aren't possible, and birthday parties have been cancelled.
Opportunities to play with peers are very important for a child's social development.
Some ideas to reconnect and have fun
1. Organise a play date via video messaging
Houseparty, Zoom, Messenger and WhatsApp (among the many available) all allow group chats. The important piece here is for them to connect — they don't have to do much, just a chat is great. If they want to have more fun together, here are some ideas you could suggest:
- Sing songs that they know together — with a dance routine would be fun.
- Play I Spy, the Alphabet game.
- A funny face competition.
- Play using props — dolls, teddies, dinosaurs. (Smaller children will need some modelling from you for this.)
- Have a snack together — make sure there isn't going to be snack envy, so coordinate with the other parents.
- Show off their pets.
2. Wave from a safe distance
If friends live on your walking route, plan ahead so you can wave to each other or chat from a safe distance.
3. Send a letter or card
Support your child to send a letter or card to their friends. The excitement of receiving a letter in return cannot be underestimated.
4. Watch a movie online together
Use the multiple tools available — for example Screen Share with Zoom, Sync Play, or Netflix Party — to settle in for a film with friends from afar.
Use your imagination and have fun. Hopefully we will all be able to reconnect in person before too long.
If you'd like to talk
For more information, or to book a consultation or therapeutic work, please get in touch.
Originally published by Sarah Lewis on LinkedIn, 17 April 2020 — during the COVID-19 lockdown.