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Go to your local playground…the safe way



6 steps to take before stepping out the door

playgrounds, safety, social distancing

The kids have been patient. They’ve seen police tape around your favorite playgrounds, which tells them to just wait a bit longer. Now that tape’s down, how do you, as a parent, feel it’s safe enough for your young charges to go play among others, and their smudged fingerprints, safely?

Anna Weih of Motherly has a piece that weights the pros and cons and offers some helpful advice with the help of experts.

The key questions to ask yourself:

Are cases on the rise in your community?
Experts agree that while there's no such thing as a "risk-free" activity this summer, the top consideration is whether there is a high level of virus activity in your community. If there's a lot of community spread in your area, the safest place for kids to play is at home.

Does your household include any individuals who are especially at risk?
If you have any elderly, pregnant or immunocompromised household members, it's safer to play at home than at the playground.

Are playgrounds in your area open?
This may seem like an obvious one, but make sure to check your community's parks department website or social media sites before you head out to make sure you're not met with a locked gate—and a lot of disappointment.


Once you’ve decided it’s officially okay to go, try these recommendations:

1. Visit at off times and limit the length of your stay.
Typically, it is best to go early in the morning or late afternoon. Try to avoid lunchtime visits or times you know there will be large crowds so you can minimize your interaction with others. And manage expectations beforehand by letting children know there's a limit on playtime: "We'll be here until 10:30, and when I say it's time to go, it's time to go. Have fun!"

2. Wear a mask + bring extras.
Although you will be outside, it is still important to wear a mask especially if you cannot maintain a safe social distance. It doesn't hurt to bring a few extras in case they rip or get sweaty from your little ones playing.

3. Do not plan to eat at the playground.
Bringing snacks to the playground may seem like Parenting 101, but kids may be tempted to touch their face with unwashed hands while eating.

4. Bring water + avoid drinking fountains.

5. Bring sanitizer.

6. Closely monitor your child to ensure they're keeping a distance from other children.

 The playground will still be just as fun while practicing social distancing.




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