Celebrating Father’s Day while social distancing

To say that COVID-19 changed life as we know it would be an understatement. Many people likely never imagined how much their daily routines would be affected when this novel coronavirus was just a blip on the radar at the end of 2019.

Social distancing may have become the new normal, but it doesn’t mean that holidays like Father’s Day have to be a wash­out. As evidenced by holidays that have already taken place amidst social distancing guide­lines, people are finding cre­ative ways to celebrate special occasions. Here are some ways to make Father’s Day special even while social distancing.

  • Turn to social apps. Virtual meeting applications, like Zoom, Skype and FaceTime provide in­valuable opportunities to speak and connect face-to-face when in-person gatherings are not possible. They also can be used to break bread together or to play games or relay stories.
  • Deliver gifts. Take a few cues from the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus and plan to drop gifts and run. Seniors and peo­ple who have compromised im­mune systems are at a higher risk of contracting contagious illnesses. While it may be tempt­ing to visit your father or grand­father in person, even a short visit could put his health at risk. Instead, leave gifts outside the house. For added fun, hide the gifts and provide scavenger hunt clues.
  • Dine out at home. If dining out was something you typically do on Father’s Day, replicate the experience at home. Try to rec­reate Dad’s favorite meal from the restaurant he loves or see if that restaurant offers curbside pickup. Transform the dining table into a restaurant table, or take the meal outdoors for some al fresco fun. Let kids serve as the wait staff.
  • Spend time together. One of the silver linings of social dis­tancing is the opportunity for family members who reside under one roof to have more uninterrupted time together. Chances are having the kids nearby and sharing some sto­ries and laughs together will be a perfect way for Dad to enjoy Father’s Day.

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