As we approach what feels like our twelfth week (or perhaps it’s the hundredth?) of a quarantine that began as a mere two-week precaution against COVID-19, my children and I have diligently steered clear of playgrounds and crowded spaces. We’ve adhered to guidelines, fully supporting the effort to flatten the curve and showing our appreciation for healthcare professionals who have borne the brunt of this pandemic. We acknowledge the serious implications of the virus—its immediate dangers and the long-term effects that remain uncertain. While the “in sympathy” messages from local organizations have decreased, the reality of loss still lingers.
However, when the government determines that it’s safe to reopen playgrounds, my family will be ready to return. This might appear contradictory, but it’s a nuanced decision.
Taking my children to a playground is not a decision made in isolation. Every individual choice carries societal implications, and the dangers that existed in March have not simply vanished by May. Nevertheless, I must balance the risks associated with the virus against the vital need for play and the strategies we’ve learned to minimize transmission. This virus may linger longer than we initially anticipated, and children need space to be themselves. They require opportunities to expend energy, climb, and swing—activities crucial for their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Particularly for my son, who was born with low muscle tone, a physical therapist emphasized the importance of playground activity to foster natural movement. Now that he’s older, that need persists.
Our understanding of COVID-19 has evolved significantly since March. We now recognize that outdoor environments pose less risk than indoor settings, and surface transmission is not as prominent as previously thought. The CDC’s May 22 update clarified that the primary mode of transmission is person-to-person contact. While it’s conceivable to contract the virus from surfaces, it is not the primary concern.
It’s important to note that the risk of infection through touching a piece of playground equipment previously used by an infected individual is minimal unless one subsequently touches their face. Of course, the challenge remains, as children—and adults—often touch their faces. I’ve become acutely aware of my own habits in that regard, especially since wearing a mask has become our new norm.
The CDC emphasizes that the virus is primarily spread through close contact, such as talking, sneezing, and coughing. Wearing a mask helps protect others from potential viral shedding, particularly from those who are asymptomatic. Therefore, we plan to visit the playground during off-peak hours to maintain social distancing and ensure our children wear masks while playing. They are capable of doing so and have practiced wearing them, understanding that adapting to this new normal is essential for us to reclaim some semblance of routine.
Not all children may be able to comply with mask-wearing due to age or sensory sensitivities. However, emerging research suggests that children are less likely to contract or transmit the virus. Still, if your child can wear a mask, it’s advisable for them to do so. If mask-wearing isn’t feasible, the risk may be lower than if adults were the only ones at the playground.
I acknowledge that remaining at home would be the safer choice, especially as we continue to navigate an uncertain landscape. Yet, the reality is that the virus may persist until we have a vaccine. There are promising developments, but the timeline remains uncertain. Are we prepared to keep our children away from playgrounds for months, or even years?
While it was manageable to keep my kids home for three months, the longer we stay isolated, the more challenging it becomes. At what point does the emotional toll of confinement outweigh the health risks of taking a calculated risk? Each family will answer that question differently.
Visiting the playground isn’t a decision I take lightly. I don’t underestimate the presence of COVID-19, nor do I prioritize my children’s boredom over public health. I’m not advocating for a reckless approach; rather, I find myself weighing the need for my children’s mental health against the ongoing realities of the pandemic. They deserve the opportunity to climb, run, and swing—activities that can significantly bolster their spirits.
Perhaps it’s time we start teaching them to make safe choices and adapt to this new reality. I believe we are at a point where we must balance stringent health measures with our children’s quality of life. Thus, when playgrounds re-open, my family will be there—during quieter times, equipped with masks, and armed with hand sanitizer.
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In summary, as we navigate the complexities of the pandemic, balancing safety and quality of life for our children is crucial. Our decision to return to playgrounds is guided by careful consideration of risks and the essential need for play.