As a firm advocate for staying home, my three energetic children and I have adhered to social distancing guidelines. However, the need for a change of scenery is vital, even if that means sending them to different corners of our home. Being an active family that thrives on adventure, we cherish our time outdoors. Thankfully, health authorities like the CDC support visits to public parks and recreational areas, provided we follow necessary precautions.
Exposure to sunlight, fresh air, and physical activity is essential for our overall well-being. Yet, crowded areas with poor social distancing can undermine these benefits. Just glancing at images of packed public spaces triggers my anxiety. Research indicates that the novel coronavirus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets during close contact. Let’s be mindful, people!
It’s crucial to use common sense. If you’re feeling unwell or have recently been in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, it’s best to stay home. Even if you are healthy, some preparation is required before venturing out. Identify a suitable location for your outdoor activities, whether it’s to enjoy nature or let the kids roam. Be aware that some trails, parks, and beaches may be closed; checking local resources or community groups online can provide valuable updates.
My children, ages nine and seven (the latter being twins), have enough energy to power a small city, while I often find myself depleted from managing their boundless enthusiasm. Time outdoors is essential for us. Our backyard and quiet street have served as playgrounds, but being confined to our own property can become monotonous. On restless days, the kids tend to bicker and plead for screen time. While boredom doesn’t overshadow our gratitude for being together, we’ve discovered ways to safely explore beyond our home, though it requires some planning.
Convincing the kids to embark on an adventure isn’t always easy. When I announce our plans, they often resist. But with persistence and preparation — packing snacks and face masks — we eventually hit the road.
Recently, I learned that our favorite trails can be overly crowded. A few weeks back, I saw my kids sprint ahead on a familiar path, and I found myself frantically urging them to slow down as they approached another family. We maintained the recommended six feet distance, but it was challenging to keep everyone apart. Just because I was vigilant doesn’t mean others were, leading to unnecessary stress. The intended benefits of our outdoor excursion were lost.
Opt for local destinations to minimize travel and potential exposure to COVID-19. This decision can reduce the need for stops along the way, which can increase risk. Before heading out, verify the amenities available at your chosen destination. After some research on nature trails near home, I recently took my kids to a park with a wide bike path and nature trail, though facilities like bathrooms and picnic areas were closed. I packed water and toilet paper for any urgent needs in nature since restroom access is limited. The CDC recommends bringing hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
Playgrounds, while tempting for children, should be avoided. They not only attract crowds but are also difficult to keep clean and disinfected. The virus can linger on surfaces, posing a risk if a child touches contaminated equipment and then their face.
Stick with only your household members and don’t forget your face masks. The CDC advises planning outings with just your immediate family. Wearing masks is crucial in situations where maintaining social distance is difficult, such as on narrow trails. Studies have shown that the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission is significantly lower in outdoor settings, provided proper distancing is maintained.
As temperatures rise and the desire to escape our homes intensifies, finding a balance between safety and the need for connection is essential. Engaging in low-risk activities, like outdoor interactions while maintaining distance, can alleviate the “quarantine fatigue” we all feel. As highlighted by Harvard Medical School professor Julia Marcus in The Atlantic, the health benefits of social connection and physical activity may outweigh the risks of low-transmission outdoor settings.
I’m thankful for the opportunities to be outside. We need to move, breathe in fresh air, and enjoy the advantages of green spaces. My mental well-being during this pandemic has been supported by a commitment to outdoor activities — walks, runs, and backyard workouts. Although my kids may resist getting dressed, once they’re outside, their joy in nature is palpable as they explore fields, collect rocks, climb trees, and play along secluded riverbanks. The CDC indicates that there’s no evidence of COVID-19 transmission through water, allowing us to enjoy these moments together. Getting outdoors helps us reconnect while also providing a necessary escape from daily realities.
To enjoy nature safely with your family, careful preparation is key. Choose your destination wisely, verify its status, and if you encounter crowds, be prepared to find another spot. Maintain a six-foot distance from non-household members, avoid touching communal surfaces, and wear masks where necessary. And be ready to embrace the great outdoors, even if that includes impromptu bathroom breaks in the woods!
For further insights, consider exploring this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination or check out some of our other posts, including this one about boosting fertility.
Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of safely enjoying outdoor activities with family during uncertain times. It highlights the need for preparation, adherence to health guidelines, and choosing local destinations to minimize risks. Engaging in outdoor activities can foster well-being and connection, offering a much-needed respite from confinement.