Independence Day is coming up fast! Although Stay-at-Home orders have mostly been lifted across the country, jumping back into old habits might not be the safest decision for ourselves or our loved ones.
Social distancing doesn’t have to ruin the Fourth. You can still celebrate the holiday with your kids by having fun and enjoying these outdoor activities.
Try these ideas for outdoor activities with kids
1. Create your own waterpark.
Don’t live close enough to an open beach? Cool down from the heat, have the little ones run off their excess energy, and celebrate the Fourth by playing in the water outside. Tossing water balloons, running through sprinklers, slipping down a waterslide, or even just spraying each other with the hose can make hours pass before you know it while creating memories for a special afternoon. Even more epic — and if your yard allows — rent a inflatable water slide.
2. Go on a bike ride.
A lot of state and national parks are open again, especially if they have open trails for biking or hiking. Pack lots of water, snacks, and sunscreen and spend the afternoon bike riding on the trails to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
3. Pack up a picnic.
Not quite up to spending the whole day on a bicycle? Pack a picnic instead! You can still enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, and the little ones can run out some of that energy without committing to a long ride. Bring along a delicious lunch and their favorite outdoor games, like frisbee or football or sidewalk chalk, and let them build memories while celebrating the holiday safely.
4. Watch a movie outside.
If your local parade has been canceled, set up an outdoor area for your family to enjoy a movie without feeling like you’re still stuck at home. Set the scene with sleeping bags, pillows, and popcorn (and bug spray if you need it). Screen an old favorite or find a new one to enjoy and create a new tradition with your little ones.
5. Go watch fireworks – or enjoy some in your own backyard.
Depending on your local laws, some fireworks might not be available. Every state has its own rules about consumer fireworks. The more kid-friendly versions like sparklers and party poppers are usually legal to use and enjoy. It’s important to closely supervise little ones around fireworks, but being able to watch a sparkler from up close is something they’ll always remember.
Don’t let social distancing get in the way of a fun holiday. You can still make memories with your little ones that will last a lifetime without taking unnecessary risks with their health. Take a little time to plan ahead and research your local area’s rules and restrictions regarding social distancing and reopening phases to decide what’s best for you and your family.
And, most importantly, have a happy Independence Day.
By Amie Durocher, Creative Director at Safe Ride 4 Kids and certified CPS Tech since 2004
Copyright 2020 Safe Ride 4 Kids. All rights reserved. You may not publish, broadcast, rewrite or redistribute this material without permission. You are welcome to link to Safe Ride 4 Kids or share on social media.
