Summer. It’s long. It’s hot. It’s usually filled with fun activities to keep your kids entertained. This year, due to COVID-19, things are a bit different – but that doesn’t mean all is lost. Even though this summer comes in the middle of a global pandemic, there are still ways to bust boredom, keep your kids busy and make memories at the same time.
Thanks to an ease in stay-at-home orders in Toronto, parents now have a few options.
Here are some ideas to consider.
Outdoor Pool:
With lots of sunny days ahead, there’s no better way to cool off than by taking a dip in the pool, as long as you keep your distance from other families. If you don’t have a pool in your backyard, you can head out to High Park where you can spend the day wandering through the scenic trails and cool off with a dip after.
Takeout Picnic:
Many restaurants have been given the green-light to welcome guests back for full dinner service on their patios, but not everyone is comfortable dining out. For families who aren’t quite ready to eat or drink in close proximity to others but still want an al-fresco dining experience, why not consider picking up a fully loaded picnic kit and take it to the closest park to enjoy?
Parents can try XO Bisous, located about 10 minutes away from Yonge and Bloor where The One construction project is taking place, which makes picnicking enjoyable with their basket full of goodies like focaccia sandwiches, salads, chips, drinks and cookies. The restaurant is in close proximity to St. James Park, Berczy Park and David Crombie Park – so take your pick!
Modified Summer Camp:
The city of Toronto is offering modified summer camps in July, which means a high-quality camp experience for children aged six to 12. The summer camps are part of the city’s CampTO program, which replaces summer programs cancelled last month due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Kids can choose a variety of camp experiences; from dance and drama to arts and crafts and active games.
Toronto Beaches:
Toronto, being by Lake Ontario and all, is home to several sandy beaches. As summer of 2020 kicks off, it may be time to visit one these beaches to enjoy some sunshine while practicing physically distancing. Keep in mind, under the city’s physical distancing bylaw, any two people who don’t live together, who fail to keep two metres of distance between them in a City park or public square, can receive a fine.
With a little modification and the ideas listed above, parents and their children can still enjoy another great summer in Toronto. Be safe!
