For many of us, the holidays are the best time of the year. It’s a chance for us to take a break from daily life and celebrate being with our families. This year, however, may be a little different.
With new cases each day, the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects are still reaching our communities. But while this year will certainly bring about new traditions, families will undoubtedly find a way to gather and celebrate together. So what are the best practices for a safe, family-friendly holiday season? Here are our recommendations:
Driving Instead Of Flying
Driving, rather than flying, may be a safer alternative for holiday traveling. Driving in your car minimizes your exposure to other people and puts you more in control of who you’re around. Wearing masks when you’re stopping for gas or food can help limit your exposure as well.
Flying can be a little riskier. Once seated on the plane, the chances of catching the disease are arguably low risk, but doctors are more concerned about the time spent in the airport leading up to your flight. Especially around the holidays, airports see much higher traffic than usual, increasing your chances of exposure. If you must fly, it’s recommended to choose a less busy hour for travel and to pick a window seat that distances you from those walking up and down the aisles.
More than that, be sure to follow CDC-recommended guidelines when traveling. Wear a mask in public, and practice social distancing. If you’re feeling ill, it may be best to cancel any travel plans to ensure the health and safety of your family members.
Keep Gatherings Small
The holidays are typically a great chance to bring the extended family together, but this may not be the ideal year to invite the entire family to celebrate. Especially for those at a higher risk for COVID-19 like grandparents or older aunts and uncles, it could be potentially dangerous to gather in a big group.
Instead, keep your in-person gatherings limited to immediate family and invite extended family virtually. Celebrating together via Zoom or Google Hangouts can be a great alternative to connecting with family you haven’t seen in a while.
Celebrating Outdoors
Most holidays are spent around the dinner table, but this year it may be smart to celebrate in the backyard. Doctors agree that the chance for exposure is limited when you’re outside and there is better airflow and ventilation. If weather allows, it may be fun for families to get creative and set up dinner and holiday activities in the back lawn or out on the patio.
Monitoring Your Health And Quarantining When Possible
Most importantly, be sure to monitor your health and the health of your loved ones in the weeks before your holiday plans. If you or a family member starts showing symptoms of COVID-19, it is recommended for you and anyone exposed to you to get tested and to self-quarantine. Though we are all eager for the sense of normalcy the holidays bring, it’s important to prioritize the health and safety of yourself and your family members.
COVID-19 has changed a lot for families this year, from how we celebrate holidays to how we educate our children. If you’re looking for a change in your child’s education, South Carolina Preparatory Academy is a tuition-free virtual charter school offering the highest quality education for your child. Reach out today to get more information and fill out an application.
