My kids and I have entered what feels like our twelfth (or maybe even thousandth?) week of a quarantine that was initially supposed to last just two weeks to help combat the spread of COVID-19. We’ve stayed away from playgrounds, crowded spaces, and have followed the guidelines set out for us. We wholeheartedly support the effort to flatten the curve, recognizing the toll this pandemic has taken on healthcare workers. We trust science, and we acknowledge that this virus is a formidable foe, with both immediate and potentially unforeseen long-term consequences. The truth is, while I have seen fewer “in sympathy” messages from local organizations, the reality of loss still lingers.
However, when the authorities declare that playgrounds are safe to visit again, my family will be among the first to return. It may sound contradictory, but it’s not.
Making Informed Decisions
My decision to take my kids to the playground isn’t made lightly. Every choice we make affects the community, and while the risks that existed back in March still loom in May, I must consider the immense benefits of outdoor play against the risks of the virus. The reality is that this virus may be part of our lives for longer than we ever expected.
Children need space to play, to expend their energy, to run, climb, and swing—especially those who lack a yard, where a playground becomes their sole outlet. When my son was diagnosed with low muscle tone, his therapist emphasized the importance of free movement, which is just as crucial for his mental and emotional well-being as it is for his physical health.
Understanding COVID-19
Our understanding of COVID-19 has evolved significantly since March. We now know that being outside is inherently safer than being indoors, and that surface transmission isn’t as significant a threat as we initially believed. On May 22, the CDC clarified that the main mode of transmission is person-to-person contact. While it’s possible to contract the virus from touching a contaminated surface, it’s not the primary way it spreads.
Let’s face it—kids love to touch their faces. Adults do too; I’ve become all too aware of my own face-touching habits during this pandemic. But here’s where masks come into play. We now know that wearing masks helps protect others from the virus, especially from those who may not show symptoms.
Strategic Playground Visits
So, our visits to the playground will be strategic. We’ll choose off-peak times to maintain social distancing and wear masks while we’re there. My kids are aware of the importance of masks and are accustomed to wearing them. Yes, some children may struggle with this adjustment, but studies suggest that children are less likely to contract or spread the virus. Thus, if your child can wear a mask, they should.
I won’t deny that staying home is the safer option, especially after what feels like an eternity. But in the U.S., it appears the virus will linger until a vaccine is available. The timeline for that is uncertain—what if it takes years? Are we really going to keep our children away from playgrounds for that long?
Three months of isolation was challenging, but as time goes on, the question becomes: at what point does keeping my kids cooped up become more harmful than taking reasonable risks? Each family will arrive at their own conclusion.
Finding Balance
I don’t take the decision to go to the playground lightly. I understand COVID-19 is still a threat, and I don’t prioritize my children’s boredom over public health. I’m not advocating for reckless abandon but rather seeking a balance between mitigating risks and ensuring quality of life for my children. A little time spent climbing and swinging might be just what they need.
It’s time to begin teaching them how to navigate this new normal. For us, that means when the playgrounds open, we’ll be there—at quieter times, wearing masks, and armed with hand sanitizer.
Additional Resources
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Summary
As playgrounds re-open, families face the decision of balancing safety with the need for children to play. With improved understanding of COVID-19 transmission, families can make informed choices about when and how to return to public spaces while prioritizing health measures like mask-wearing and social distancing.
Keyphrase: Playground Re-Opening
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