If there’s a big birthday coming up in your family (and let’s face it, for kids, every birthday is a big birthday!), you’re probably struggling with how to celebrate in the midst of this global pandemic. Is it possible to safely celebrate birthdays in spite of coronavirus?
The answer is YES! You just have to be smart and careful about it. Here at Wheels Skate Center, we’re practically birthday party experts, and our skating rink is the go-to for birthday parties in Odenton, Maryland. While we’re looking forward to opening back up soon, you don’t have to wait to get the birthday fun started. Check out these tips to make your child’s birthday extra special while staying safe.
Pandemic Party Planning Ideas
Go virtual.
Your safest bet is still to keep the party virtual. Fortunately, there’s never been a better time for online partying thanks to all of the handy apps and services available like Houseparty, Google Hangouts, Skype, and even Netflix or Facebook watch parties!
Invite your friends and family to join you for a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday to You” and let them watch the birthday kid blow out the candles and make a wish. If friends and relatives have sent gifts, you can even schedule times with them to watch your kid open the gifts over video chat or livestreaming on social media!
Get creative.
People have come up with some truly wild and creative birthday celebration ideas during the coronavirus pandemic, from staging elaborate birthday parades with decorated vehicles driving by the birthday kid’s house, to flooding the mailbox with cards from every classmate, teammate, neighbor, teacher, coach, and relative.
Make safety fun.
If you do choose to have an in-person party, it’s crucial to maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet between all guests. Let guests know what the party location will be like (for instance, will they need to bring their own chairs or picnic blankets?) and make sure they know to wear a mask and practice good hygiene. If you want to take the festivities up a notch, you could even send out fun/wacky masks and individual size hand sanitizers ahead of time! Consider it a coronavirus spin on the typical party favor or goody bag.
Use your power for good.
During times like this, the important things in life come into focus. Are you teaching your kids how to live their beliefs? Help your child choose a charity or organization that they are passionate about, whether that’s the local animal shelter, the library, or something else. Set up a fundraiser and put a call out to friends and family asking them to donate in the birthday kid’s name. Your child will feel so proud to have used their birthday to make a difference!
Turn lemons into lemonade.
While all of the pandemic restrictions feel very restrictive, this unprecedented situation can turn into an opportunity to make new birthday traditions and memories. If you can’t celebrate with loved ones in person, get them to send video messages that your child can re-watch and treasure for years to come.