In January, I was eagerly awaiting warmer months and finalizing our spring and summer vacation plans. Toward the end of March, plans changed. We found ourselves in need of some viable staycation ideas that would work for an active 9-year-old and his travel-obsessed parents.
The coronavirus pandemic has, of course, created a shift in how the world is moving forward in 2020. Many are opting to travel only when essential and taking to their backyards for the remainder of the summer. A staycation provides a sense of adventure close to home when you're unable to travel.
Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy, author Sarah Ban Breathnach often writes of the simple joys in life. She emphasizes the importance of making your house a source of comfort and creating an oasis that is uniquely yours. In her book she says, "Be grateful for the home you have, knowing that at this moment, all you have is all you need."
This is the reminder, especially during these difficult times, that at this moment cherishing what we do have is essential. While we may not be traveling right now, we can take time to enjoy the simple things in life. These staycation ideas allow us the space to appreciate what really matters.
Backyard staycations
Staycation ideas for couples
Enjoy each other's company.
Maintain social distancing while still celebrating your spouse with these staycation ideas for couples looking for some quality time together. If you're looking for things to do on a staycation, you'll likely have luck finding some great options close to home. With attendance low due to state restrictions and lockdown, many attractions are offering significant discounts to entice customers. You'll probably be able to find some staycation deals near home at locations you've always wanted to visit, but never had time to check out. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these precautions for visiting parks and recreational facilities.
Lyn Dick is a mom of three and an applied behavior analysis tech who has been working from home since March. "We spent the spring making our backyard our own personal oasis. Staying home and staying safe is our staycation," she told Mom.com. Lyn will continue to work with her students through the summer and retreat to her backyard after working hours. "I am doing summer school virtually and home services with a new client," she told us.
Discover historical tours in your city.
Spend time together exploring the area's stories. No matter where you live, there's bound to be a staycation location in your state that's worth a visit. As museums and galleries start to reopen with strict social distancing guidelines, now may be the perfect time to take advantage of staycation deals and feel like a tourist in your own city.
Go off the grid.
Disconnect from social media and shut off your phone for a few days. Order a meal subscription kit and spend time creating a delicious dinner or pick up those books you've been meaning to read. Studies have shown that using multiple devices simultaneously has been linked to depression and anxiety. Removing all screens and distractions and spending time, even if it's just at home doing DIY projects or deep cleaning your bedroom, gives you time to talk, work together, and reconnect without interruptions.
However you decide to spend your vacation for the summer months, staying safe and protecting your health and the health of others is the goal. These staycation ideas can help make for a fun and safe vacation at home for you and your kids.
