Hot Topics     Home and Family    

We can start going out, but where can the children play?



Parks and playgrounds opening but caution is required

playgrounds, pandemic, children, safety, health

Government officials across the Hudson Valley are allowing residents to gather in groups, with the numbers growing as the “curve flattens.” Parents and caregivers with children who are bouncing off the walls are eager to bring them to the neighborhood park. Can we? Yes, but with these cautions:

The CDC’s latest report says that we can return, but remember that keeping socially distant can be tricky, surfaces may not be disinfected regularly, and children tend to touch everything and touch their eyes, nose and mouth. But, if parents can keep that in mind, and keep careful watch on their children, it is possible to return to the playground. Do so with care and with reminders to your children on keeping safe. 

 If possible, opt for parks rather than playgrounds. Bring your own equipment, like bats, frisbees, kickballs, and the like. Clean them off when done. If you do want to try the playground, remember these tips:
  • Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet away from people you don’t live with.
  • Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
    - Adults and older children who can safely use hand sanitizer: Use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and rub hands together until dry, if soap and water are not readily available.
  • Wear a cloth face covering if you can. Cloth face coverings should not be placed on:
    - Children under age 2
    - Anyone who has trouble breathing
    - Anyone who is unconscious, can’t move, or is otherwise unable to remove the cloth face covering without assistance 
Play it safe around and in swimming pools, hot tubs, and water playgrounds. Remember to keep space between yourself and others. Evidence suggests that COVID-19 cannot be spread to humans through most recreational water, and as long as they are disinfected with chlorine, the spread of COVID-19 is usually eliminated.



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Kids aren't eating fruits and veggies

    Happiest Baby's Dr. Harvey Karp has tips to change that

    A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that approximately 32% of 1- to 5-year-olds did not eat a single piece of fruit a day and nearly one half (~49%) didn't eat any vegetables a day. Roughly 51% drank a sugar-sweetened beverage, like fruit drinks or soda, at least once a week. read more »
  • 5 sleep habits essential for heart health

    Make sure you get your zzz's with these tips

    In the days following a time change due to daylight saving time, research shows a marked increase in heart attacks and strokes. However, losing sleep anytime can be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. read more »
  • Take these 6 steps to manage your blood pressure

    Hypertension can be dangerous

    High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects nearly half of adults in the United States, and only about 1 in 4 with this condition have it under control, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). read more »
  • Make your St. Patrick's Day spread green with envy

    These open-faced noshes can be perfect for lunch, snack time or an appetizer

    Freshen up your St. Patrick’s Day menu with easy, light sandwiches inspired by the traditional color of the festivities. These open-faced noshes can be perfect for lunch, snack time or even as an appetizer for get-togethers with friends and family. read more »
  • Lucky mint brownie perfection

    A twisted combination of mint and sweet chocolate

    How lucky you must be to come across this recipe just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. This one is a twisted combination of mint and sweet chocolate that’s sure to have almost anyone’s taste buds screaming “yum.” This dessert might just be the pot of gold at the end of your rainbow this year. read more »
  • 3 ways parents can encourage social emotional learning in children

    Parents focus on social emotional skills, mental health, kindness and understanding differences

    Most parents would agree the quality of their children’s education plays a key role in their overall development. While parents are optimistic about the future of education, they also recognize children have educational needs beyond what is considered the standard. read more »
  • Selecting a health care provider

    Resources to guide your selection

    Getting health care for yourself or a loved one is a big responsibility, especially if you’re just getting started with Medicare or have changes in your life, such as a new diagnosis of a condition or disease. It can be overwhelming if you need services like nursing home care, have to find a new doctor or get home health care. read more »
  • 5 simple solutions for proper nasal hygiene

    Keep your nasal passages clean, clear and moisturized

    Your nose is essential for conditioning the air you breathe and serves as the first line of defense against dust, pollution, bacteria, viruses and more. The presence of these substances in your nasal passages can trigger infections, disease and illness. read more »
  • Have a bump on your foot?

    Don’t ignore it

    Have a lump or bump on your foot? Whether it’s painful or not, it could potentially signal a serious condition. Foot and ankle surgeons warn it’s important to have it checked out, no matter its size or location on your foot. read more »
  • Fun Easter 'Egg-turnatives'

    4 creative alternatives to decorating eggs this Easter

    While decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back centuries, the high cost of eggs may make it more difficult for some families this year. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find creative ways to keep the season special and create memories with loved ones. read more »