Are you looking for activities to enjoy with your family during the COVID-19 pandemic? Staying home doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. Studies have shown that the risk of contracting the new coronavirus outdoors is extremely low. From increased physical fitness to a stronger immune system, spending time outside also has many benefits for both adults and children. If your kids are glued to their video games, try these four ideas to facilitate family time outdoors during the corona crisis.

1. Play Ball

If your kids are missing their after-school sports teams, start your own family league in the backyard. You can find affordable sports equipment at most sporting goods stores and big-box retailers. Set up some bases and play a few innings or put up a volleyball net and practice your spikes. Let your kids take charge and have fun! Even a nonsensical game of Calvinball or just tossing the ball around is great exercise and great fun. Playing sports at home is also a great way for your kids to keep their skills sharp for next season.

2. Have a Picnic

You might not be able to dine in your favorite restaurants right now, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for frozen pizza. Support local businesses by ordering takeout from your favorite joint, and enjoy your meal in the fresh air with a family picnic. Set up a blanket in your yard or at a park if you can social distance. Don’t forget to clean up your mess when you’re finished. If you don’t want to order take out, a basket of homemade sandwiches or even just taking a meal outside is a great way to mix things up.

3. Sit on the Front Porch

Before air conditioning was common in homes, front porches were every family’s favorite gathering place. Set up some outdoor furniture, a cold pitcher of lemonade, and some fun card games to enjoy this old past time in the 21st century. Consider adding a porch swing or surround your porch with lattice screening for increased privacy and protection from the elements.

4. Go Backyard Camping

From melty s’mores to scary stories and songs around the campfire, there’s no better way to enjoy the outdoors than a night of camping. However, you don’t have to leave your house to sleep under the stars. Put up your tent in your backyard, grab your sleeping bags, and build a fire pit with rocks or spare bricks. Be sure to stay safe while setting this up and don’t forget to bring the hotdogs and marshmallows.

Although your risk of contracting the new coronavirus outdoors is low, it’s still important to practice safety measures like social distancing and wearing masks in public spaces. You can also lower your risk by avoiding contact with anyone who isn’t a member of your own household or daily social circle.  The above ideas are good ways to mix it up, stay safe, and spend time outside with your family or roommates. Please enjoy them as responsibly and safely as possible.