As the COVID-19 pandemic continues its wave of destruction across the United States, an unlikely casualty is often overlooked. Despite so many businesses closing their brick-and-mortar stores, many people have found themselves to be working from home. However, the virus is proving to be difficult for children too, albeit in a far less obvious way. While a snow day or public holiday in which the school has a mandatory closing is often a welcome break for younger generations, having school closures for a more lengthy amount of time is ultimately detrimental to children’s social belonging and mental health.
No wave of a magic wand can change the presence of this public health emergency, and for the first time in history, it does appear that everyone “is in the same boat” and doing the best that they can. Children who have been separated from their school friends and older family members, as well as the structures that learning environments bring, just can’t see it in quite the same way. As a result, they’re quietly anxious and often missed as being the focal point of our concerns.
What can we do to help them? Well, the best part of lifting the spirits of children in difficult times is that they can be quite easily pleased. Every kid loves a festive occasion, particularly birthdays and Christmas, so let’s take one of them and see how to make it special. Here are a few ideas for hosting an unforgettable birthday party.
Entertainment
Let’s be honest; it isn’t just kids that love a good magic show. Seeing David Blaine, Criss Angel, or Penn and Teller perform is something that every generation—from boomers to millennials—enjoys. Ok, so we know it’s a set of illusions, but we’re still astonished. For many children, though, magic is magic. How about hiring a magician to perform a magic show for your child’s birthday party?
If you happen to be close or within the Big Apple, then Clowns4Kids is just around the corner to help out. Beyond magic shows for events, they provide all the decorations—balloons, streamers, banners, cotton candy, games, DJs… you name it! Don’t let the name fool you; although they do have clowns on hand to make balloon animals, they’re aware that for those with Coulrophobia (AKA a fear of clowns) this wouldn’t be the best option. If you’re looking for a magician in Long Island who is prepared to leave the red nose at home, then give Clowns4Kids a call.
Dress To Impress
Kids love cartoon characters, video game characters, super-hero characters, and movie characters. Therefore, they will absolutely relish the idea to dress up as one and have an excuse to get messy doing it. We’re talking face paints, stuck on fabrics, and makeup—the works.
Consider introducing a theme to this special event to make it more unique. No one ever forgets that party where they got to parade around in a cape made from grandparents’ old drapes, or where they wore a floral gown that went on for meters. Don’t forget that if you aren’t getting involved by wearing a costume of your own, you should still try and dress to impress. After all, while the kids are partying, this could be an ideal opportunity for you to let your hair down with the other parents and guardians. Have a look at White House Black Market’s sale for a great pair of black dress pants and blouses that you can buy without the need to take out a loan. Plus, WHBM’s range makes for clothing that makes any woman feel good when wearing. It is a party, after all, so get comfortable!
For Those Who Cave
Remember the rule—a pet is for life, not just for Christmas? Well, the same applies to birthdays too, and if you have finally given in and gotten your child that live animal that they always (said they) wanted, then don’t forget who is really going to be looking after them. In fairness, having an animal in the house might be a wonderful way to not only distract the children’s attention for after the birthday party of the century, but it will occupy the rest of family time too. If you caved and introduced a more exotic pet, such as a lizard, a snake, or a turtle (instead of playing it safe with a live rabbit), then check out this list for top pet products for reptile owners from Triple-A Radio.
We could all use a little distracting right now, and following these tips will no doubt give your kids a great time they’ll never forget.