How to enjoy a day out with the kids during COVID-19
It is an uncertain time for us living in the UK at the moment and I have been following the government guidelines with increasing concern in the last few weeks.
Following the increasing numbers of safety measures advised by the government to limit the spread of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, they have implemented recommendations to avoid social contact and already our planned trips to Warner Bros Studio Tour and The Story Museum have been postponed and cinema’s and theatre’s have closed.
The thought of going into isolation with children is enough to send any parent into meltdown, however, unless you, or any of your family are showing symptoms you do not have to be housebound, just be sensible about the activities you choose to do.
Official Government advice states that, apart from people who are in households with symptoms or who have pre-existing health conditions that put them at increased risk of contracting COVID-19, going for a walk independently can continue and is an excellent way to maintain health and wellbeing. Please see Public Health England’s guidelines on social distancing for further advice.
With warmer, and hopefully, drier weather around the corner, getting out into open spaces is a must with the kids.
The National Trust has announced that it plans to keep as many of its parks and gardens open and free of charge, although they are closing their houses and cafe’s to the public, so take along a picnic and enjoy the open space, whilst observing social distancing measures.
Taking this kids for a walk in the countryside can seem unappealing, but there are plenty of things available to help keep them engaged and entertained.
How to keep the kids entertained on a country walk
Take a small backpack – kids love to find “treasure”. Pine cones, acorns, different coloured leaves. Collecting them in a backpack is a real treat and they can use them for artwork when they get home.
Spot different types of animals / plants – we have a collection of I-SPY books which are great for taking out on country walks and the kids love being able to tick of things they have seen.
You can get countryside, insect, bird, flower, beach books and many more, which are all fun, interactive ways to encourage curious children to learn about the world around them and perfect for wherever you live in the UK.
Take some plastic pots – you don’t have to buy a bug hunting kit in the shops, raid the cupboard for old tupperware type pots or jars that the kids can use to catch their mini beasts.
Use colour cards – Make a trip to your local DIY shop and pick up come of their paint colour charts, or print some at home. These are perfect to motivate the kids by getting them to find the different colours in the charts along the walk.
Collect Sticks – kids love sticks! Even at 11, Isaac always has to find a new stick for walking with, doing battle with each other or playing pooh sticks.
Take some binoculars – binoculars are a great way of getting the kids interested in nature. Check out my giveaway to win a pair of Kidnoculars from Learning Resources.
The most important thing is keeping the kids safe and healthy, so do keep checking for current advice as it is changing on a daily basis.
How do you keep your kids entertained on outdoor walks?
Rhian Westbury
I think it’s so important for everyone to get outside and get some fresh air while this is going on. I need to make sure I get outside x
Becky
My children still love sticks! We can’t seem to go on a walk without acquiring some new ones. And woe betide one child picks up a stick that the other has dropped…
Jenni
We are in France and currently on a 15 day lock down but are still allowed to go for a walk as long as we don’t socialise with anyone else we bump into, it’s a great way to break up the day
Anosa
I agree, we definitely need to get out of the house and have some fresh air. I plan on going for a walk to the park with my kids just to get out for a bit and let my son blow off some steam
Sarah | Boo Roo and Tigger Too
It’s sad to see so many attractions closed (understandably), however, it is wonderful to see the National Trust keep their outside areas open where possible to ensure that people are able to get outdoors
Rebecca Smith
We are definitely going to be going on a lot of walks during these uncertain times, I want to get the kids out in the open air as much as possible, sensibly of course.
Mellissa Williams
Its great that the National Trust are keeping their parks open if not their buildings so that people can still get outdoors. It is so important.
Samantha Donnelly
Great advice here, when I saw that National Trust was keeping open it made me happy. We used to love going to them and having some great days out. Plus getting outside with kids will keep them entertained and fresh air is always good and helpful for making them tired so sleep better at night
Kim Carberry
Great advice. I was thinking there is no way we can stay confined to the house & garden. I’ve already said to my two that we will be going for bike rides and for a walk in the woods. x
Jenni
I think we will be enjoying lots of walks, we love exploring and I am so glad that we still have that as an option open to us.
Di
I’ve been enjoying walks with my dog, and doing yoga at home. Honestly I’ve enjoyed being home right now more than being out. I went grocery shopping and it was apocalyptic with all the empty shelves!
Natasha Mairs
I am so glad that I live in an area surrounded by fields and woods etc. We have plenty of places to go for a walk where we wont bump into anyone else.
Emma Raphael
I am so glad this currently still the case in the UK, it’s so important to get outside and enjoy nature at the moment. In Bavaria where I used to live, it’s all on a complete lock down right now with massive fines if you are caught outside without good reason. Let’s hope it doesn’t last long. x
Bolupe
This is so important that we get to explore the outdoor spaces but with caution. Thanks for sharing the picture guideline from the World Health Organisation.
It helps keep people at ease.
On my blog, I wrote about the National Trust Parks open in the East of England.
I am slowly walking my way to getting a list of all the National Trust Parklands and gardens that will be open during this period.
Laura Schwormstedt
These are such good tips and really follow the current guidelines to show you can be safe and responsible when outdoors and practising social distancing
Laura x
amzy
That’s exactly what I needed! Thank you!