Socializing While Social Distancing
One of the biggest challenges of being socially isolated is the inability to socialize in person. For adults, we have our coffee chats or our virtual cocktail parties but what can children do who are missing interactions with friends? Playdates in person can be anxiety producing for parents and virtual playdates pose their own set of challenges. The most important factor with both virtual and in person playdates is structure and facilitation. Remember to have a plan in place before the playdate begins and a time for it to end. Review this plan with your child and incorporate a snack, maybe in the middle of two activities. Stay near your child during the playdate so you can assist them with interacting if needed.
The Meeting House After School program, which met at Parkside prior to COVID-19, is also a great resource for social engagement.
There will be a day when our children will be outside again enjoying their friends in a natural environment, but until then here are some ideas to enjoy together with your child and their friends.
Draw or color together. They can each draw a picture of the two of them doing something before COVID-19. Or, they can tell each other something to draw and compare.
Building together is another way all age groups can engage. They can each design a city, outer space, a building or farm. For younger children or those with less language, parents can bridge the gap by commenting on what each child is doing.
Play games like Hedbanz, Bingo, Guess Who or Charades. Check in first to make sure each child has the same version of the game and it is set up prior to the playdate. Simon Says is another good game to do virtually.
Play-doh provides numerous creative ideas that can be shared with one another.
Play dress up with costumes.
Have a tea party with stuffed animals.
If you are feeling really creative, do the same cooking activity together.
Play music together. Even if you don’t have instruments you can use objects to create different sounds.
Have a dance party.
Take turns writing a crazy story together. Provide a topic and take turns writing sentences. Younger children, or those with more fine motor issues, can dictate to a parent. Share with family and friends.
Put on a fashion show with crazy hats or varied attire
Organize a scavenger hunt (this takes some prep work prior to the day).
We encourage parents to set up virtual playdates for your children if you are able to. Please reach out if you need any support or other ideas, and let us know how it goes!