7 At-Home Activities for Social Distancing

7 At-home Activities for Social Distancing

As we retreat into our homes to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it can be challenging to keep our children entertained without turning to screen time.  Don't get me wrong, my kids have seen Moana a time or twelve.  But if they aren't stimulated throughout the day with new activities, they are way more likely to antagonize each other and test my limited patience.  I gathered 7 of our favorite activities--some for kids and some for adults--that you can do while practicing social distancing.

1) Snow Painting--Ok, this one is really only applicable if you live in an area that still has snow (hello, Duluth, MN).  Fill an old spray bottle with a cup of water and several drops of food coloring.  I like to dig through the recycling bin to find an old cereal box or something I can make a stencil out of.  In the picture below, I made a heart stencil that my kids used to make heart balloons, flowers, and dragonflies.  

2) Bubble Foam--My kids love this sensory activity.  Added bonus: they're killing germs on their hands as they play!  We use this recipe from Busy Toddler.  Whip up 2 parts water, 1 part bubble path, 1-2 drops of food coloring.  I like to hide plastic toys in the foam for them to find.  My little guy likes to play car wash and he drives his trucks through it.

3) Obstacle Courses--Another family favorite.  I place a broom across two chairs to have them army crawl underneath it.  Couch cushions come off and become lily-pads they have to hop between.  A hula hoop is placed on the floor and they have to roll it between one point to another.  A tennis ball is staged and they have to throw it into a 5 gallon bucket before moving on.  My kids like to compete against themselves.  So, I put their names on a chalk board and, underneath, I record their times for Heat 1, Heat 2, and Heat 3.  

4) Dance Parties--Remember the days where you danced your buns off and didn't have a care in the world?  Crank the tunes and challenge your kids to a dance-off.  This is a sure-fire way to boost everyone's moods.

5) Hunger Games--I know, it sounds morbid, but it is SOOOO FUN.  We made up this game based on the book a few years ago.  It is intended for older kids (10 +).  Fill old, unmatched socks with flour and tie the ends.  Place the socks on the floor in a central location.  This is the cornucopia for those who have read the book.  Start in a circle around your weapons.  GO!  Grab a sock or two and if you hit another person with it, they are out.  Last person standing is the winner.  This can be played indoors or out but we recommend outside if you have the space.

6) Online Workouts--If I don't work out, I get cranky.  Here are a few of my favorite free online workouts.  15 Min HIIT from Nourish Move Love.  Free yoga classes from Yoga Glo.

​7) Take a Virtual Tour--While the zoos and museums may be closed, they're still offering tours--virtually!  Yes, this is technically screen time but I like the educational component.  Our favorite is the Smithsonian's National Zoo.  

What are you doing to stay busy?  I'd love to hear your ideas or your feedback on these activities.  Be well!