After being on lockdown for a little over 140 days, many schools are reopening for the new school year. Some school districts have opted for a completely virtual online school model. Other schools are following a staggered hybrid schedule option. As students get ready to filter back into the classroom and with many programs, facilities, and playgrounds closed, families are beginning to seek out safe activities to combat after-school boredom.
Some students will be able to take advantage of their schools' before and after-school care, but many families are scrambling to find an after-school program option. "They are offering aftercare, but for a limited amount of students," mom of three Tiffany Brown told Mom.com of her children's school. "They will also have a waitlist."
If you're trying to find a safe after-school activity or program to keep kids engaged and busy, these ideas may help.
Note: Before you sign your child up for any after-school activity taking place in person, check to make sure that the facility is following current safety guidelines.
Keep your kids safe and engaged with these after-school activities
Safe after-school activities for older kids home alone during COVID-19
Gone are the days of coming home from school and hanging outside with friends until our parents got home. Even back then we were wary of leaving kids to their own devices. Now more than ever, parents with older kids at home alone after the schoolday ends are looking for ways to keep kids engaged and socially distant. If your child is old enough and able to stay home alone, consider supplying them with an after-school tool kit full of sites, activities, and resources to keep them occupied until you get home.
Dr. Robert D. Keder, a developmental pediatrician at Connecticut Children's Medical Center, recently wrote about the importance of staying connected virtually during these difficult times. "Use technology to deepen your child's connection to important adults in their life. Your child may not be able to visit their grandparents right now, but thanks to video chats, they can still connect face-to-face," he said. "With some adjustments, most offline activities can be done via video chat."
Social distancing games and activities for kids
JusTalk Kids is a video chat app with drawing capabilities that allow your child to play socially distant games and have chats with friends and family members on their contact list. Parents control who has access to the account, so there's no risk of your child receiving unapproved friend requests. This is a great way to stay in touch while maintaining social distancing.
Provide your kids with a list of art and music resources they can seek out as a fun after-school activity at home. Online music and art lessons are ideal socially distant activities for kids who have extra time to fill after-school.
