Making the Most of Summer 2020

Summer is here! The sun is shining, the weather is warm, and there’s never a better time to plan some family fun. COVID-19 might have put a dent in your vacation plans, but safely exploring your community or having a staycation is the perfect way to enjoy Summer 2020 safely.

Whether you’re looking to get active outdoors or stay hunkered down at home, there are plenty of activities for all ages. If you’re running out of ideas to keep yourself and your family entertained this summer while still following health and safety guidelines, we’ve got you covered.

Go Explore

Frederick County offers so many options for families looking to get out, explore, and stay active. When social distancing and safety guidelines are followed, these activities are a great way to make the most of your summer.

• LiveWell Frederick’s Story Path program in Utica Park is a perfect way to get outside and take a stroll with your family, all while reading a good book.
• Discover Frederick on a bike. There are bicycle routes and trails for riders of all skill levels throughout the city and the county.
• If your family loves exploring on foot, check out the Hit the Trail passport to discover the gorgeous trails of Frederick County and mark off the ones you visit.
• For more local adventure ideas and a list of parks, check out the City of Frederick’s Parks & Recreation page. This page also outlines COVID-19 related operation updates and closures.

Summer Staycation

Canceled vacation due to COVID-19? Try a staycation! Whether it’s an overnight backyard camping trip or a week full of extra special family activities, staycations are a cheaper, low-hassle alternative to a family trip. Check out these ideas, courtesy of our partner LiveWell Frederick, to plan your vacation at home:

• Plan a backyard scavenger hunt. Research native plants, bugs, or critters in your area and see which ones can be spotted in your backyard. Make it a game and see who can discover the most.
• Have fun with food. Discover new healthy recipes and let your kids pitch in by helping prep ingredients.
• Keep learning. Have the kids discover how much sugar is in popular drinks with a DIY sugar bottle display, do a word search, or any other activities that keep the mind active.
• Take virtual workout classes. The YMCA of Frederick County offers virtual workout videos for adults, kids, and families.
• Participate in virtual storytime through Frederick County Public Libraries.

How to Get Active

Not only does being an active family improve your health, but it’s also a great way to spend quality time with one another. Physical activity is important for kids and adults of all ages; in fact, you should get at least one hour of physical activity each day. Want to get active but need help? Frederick Health’s ProMotion Fitness program offers the personal attention and guidance you need to get active and stay healthy. These tips for becoming a more active family can also help you get the ball rolling:

• Set specific times for activity, like a Sunday morning bike ride or an after-dinner walk.
• Plan ahead and track progress. Write your activity plans on a calendar and involve your family in decision-making.
• Include housework. Involving your entire family in weeding, raking, vacuuming, and other chores not only checks off items on your to-do list but is a great way to get the family active.
• Use what’s available. You don’t need fancy equipment to get active. Plan activities that require little or no equipment like walking, dancing, and playing tag.
• Plan for any weather. If it’s too hot or too rainy, have some indoor back-up plans for activities like a family dance party or active video games.
• Limit screen time. Unless you’re doing activities like virtual workouts, virtual storytime, or active video games, each family member should limit their screen time to two hours or less per day.
• Start small. You don’t have to be the family that jogs a mile every Saturday morning. Begin your active family adventure by introducing one new activity at a time and adding more when everyone is ready. Getting active is healthy, but it can also be fun!

Stay Safe

Don’t forget to keep safety measures in mind this summer. When going in public, even on trails, you and your family should wear face masks and stay at least six feet away from those not in your household. Remember to wash your hands, and if you don’t have access to soap and running water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

If you need to see a doctor or specialist this summer, rest assured—the safety of our patients, visitors, and healthcare team is critical. We’ve increased our safety measures and make appropriate changes as needed. Frederick Health is here for you, whether it’s for an in-person visit or via telehealth.

Have a safe and healthy summer!