Although heading into the holidays looks a bit different this year, that doesn’t mean those who are staying home have to miss out on all of the spirited activities and quality time that we look forward to all year. There are many ways to spend time with your loved ones while following local guidelines and keeping the members of the community safe.
Celebrating the holidays means something a little different to everyone, but some of the most exciting parts can still be done with a bit of creativity. Consider these ways to safely enjoy the most wonderful time of the year:
Video chat: If you haven’t already been on the band wagon of video chatting with your distant loved ones, now is a perfect time to get familiar. Make sure to take the time to help senior family members by taking them through how to download and use Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts or another form of video chat from their laptops, tablets or smartphones.
With the family using video chat, the possibilities are near endless for the entertainment you can enjoy together such as virtual bingo, holiday story times, cooking recipes together or even sitting down to enjoy a meal together while live online.
Cookie exchange: Cookie decorating and bake-offs are a common holiday tradition. A great way to replace this tradition is with a cookie exchange. Sending your distant family members a batch of your famous gingerbread cookies in exchange for their specialty cookies could make for a fun way to share those sweet treats baked with love — just remember to send them in the mail early enough before the holiday rush.
Door drops: This time of year calls for gift giving and receiving. While shopping virtually and having gifts delivered to your loved ones has become easier than ever, remember that door dropping is also a safe option. If you have friends, loved ones or even neighbors you want to show your appreciation for, pack up a small gift and leave it on their doorstep.
Honoring religious traditions: For those families who traditionally attend religious gatherings together as part of their holiday celebration, many services are being offered online using live, interactive platforms such as Zoom.
Caroling: Caroling can be easy using a video platform; look for holiday-themed sing-alongs online that you can participate in together. Not one for caroling? Try putting together a holiday-themed playlist with some of your family favorites and sharing it with one another.
The possibilities are almost endless when it comes to enjoying time together virtually, whether you’re sending one another recipes to cook together, opening presents over video chat or staying entertained and engaged with games.
With everything happening in the world, make sure to stay connected with the seniors in your family and look for ways to keep the spirit bright through the upcoming holiday season with all who are distanced.
Comments