As this coronavirus situation has developed, I’ve had a lot of questions: Would we go to the playground? Would we get together with friends? The articles listed at the end of this post, shared on Moms on the Hill (MOTH) and in neighborhood Facebook groups, helped me figure out answers. My family is practicing strict social distancing.
This is, of course, not easy with a 3-year-old! Yesterday, instead of going to Maury playground (our favorite), we went to nearby Kingman Field, a big grassy area with no playground equipment that is used for soccer and lacrosse. It was challenging because my kid is really social and wanted to run over to the other kids there instead of playing ball with just me. When we got home, I ordered him a new bike and scooter so we can have fun things to do outdoors that don’t involve approaching others. Meanwhile, I hear there were hundreds of people over at Lincoln Park conducting business as usual.
I want to urge you all to stay in and keep your distance. It could make a big difference. Yesterday, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced six new positive cases in DC, bringing the total to 16 individuals. Be part of the solution and help slow it down. Here are reading materials:
Social Distancing: This is Not a Snow Day (Medium)
I know there is some confusion about what to do next in the midst of this unprecedented time of a pandemic, school closures, and widespread social disruption. As a primary care physician and public health leader, I have been asked by a lot of people for my opinion, and I will provide it below based on the best information available to me today. These are my personal views, and my take on the necessary steps ahead. Read.
Parenting During Coronavirus: What to Know about Play Dates, Education and More (The Washington Post)
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed and struggling to keep up with the ever-growing list of cancellations, closures and other news surrounding the novel coronavirus, we feel you. Read.
Why Outbreaks Like Coronavirus Spread Exponentially, and How to “Flatten the Curve” (The Washington Post)
After the first case of covid-19, the disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus, was announced in the United States, reports of further infections trickled in slowly. Two months later, that trickle has turned into a steady current. Read.
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus (Child Mind Institute)
News of the coronavirus COVID-19 is everywhere, from the front page of all the papers to the playground at school. Many parents are wondering how to bring up the epidemic in a way that will be reassuring and not make kids more worried than they already may be. Here is some advice from the experts at the Child Mind Institute. Read.
More neighborhood news on kids and coronavirus:
- The Drama of the Day-Off Camps: All Appear to Be Canceled for Monday
- Wknd Rndp, March 13-15: Let’s Stay In
- Mayor Announces Ban on Gatherings of More Than 250
- Stock Up on Fun, Support Local Stores
- DCPS Closed Next Week Through End of March: Updates
- DCPS Moves Professional Development Day to Monday: Camp Updates
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