I’ve just read a post by
@AFKABartram on the main coronavirus thread about the difficulties of entertaining the family and generally enjoying life in the current situation we all find ourselves in, especially now as the last throws of summer have gone. Without a doubt we are all collectively living in the most uncertain times of our lives (apologies to folk on here who were around pre 1945, that might not quite be true for you) and many of the things that this time last year we would have enjoyed without a second thought have now been taken away from us. Even without thinking about the direct tragedy that has befallen many and the ongoing effects of the illness many more are enduring, finding the pleasures and satisfactions from life has become a greater challenge to us all.
One tool used in psychology, often In a team when working with particularly challenging people, is to look at the situation with a ‘positive slant’ ie whatever the circumstances you look at the positives and try to take strength and encouragement from them. I am sure that
@AFKABartram was not the only one that found the extra difficulties of a wet weekend and the restrictions we live in made for quite a challenge. I am also quite sure that the weather will remain a challenge and corona virus restrictions will not disappear In the near future, therefore the challenge of how best to enjoy life will remain with us.
I wondered if it might be helpful here, to take the positive slant view and share some things that we can still enjoy and might be helpful and inspiring for others. For myself I have invested in a patio heater and gazebo and intend to, no matter how bad the weather gets entertain people in my garden and will be stocking up on mulled wine and getting a fire pit. I am also thinking that I will get out more during the day with the family wrapped up warm, but enjoying the autumn colours of nature that perhaps in the past have been ignored in favour of a warmer dryer alternative
Sorry to start a new thread on this, I did not want to clog the main coronavirus one. I would love to hear all your thoughts on what we can still do and enjoy through the rather different winter that is approaching us.
Comments
walks
crazy golf
playgrounds / parks
Indoor Family stuff in winter
soft play
trampolining
tenpin bowling
Covid friendly as well, one way system in a lot of places and plenty of staff counting people in and out of certain areas to avoiding over crowding.
Those with kids that like fossils, try heading to Beltinge when the tide is out and pick up the fossilised shark teeth lying around, then rock pooling in Reculver, a sand castle on Botany Bay and fish and chips in Whitstable on the way home with a bit of crabbing too.
Wrap up warm and it is wonderful (as long as it is dry).
I want to get down to Dover at some point as well for a walk along the cliffs and a stroll on the beach as I have never done that, I assume the castle may be open also.
The South downs is great for a walk or cycle as is the Ashdown Forest. I have also signed up for the Geocache app as my kids love finding them and giving a purpose to our walks.
Places like Bedgebury are great fun and cost little.
There is plenty in the winter for young families when it is dry, when it is wet all weekend it is that much more difficult and the places that remain open like Airthrills in Catford I just don't think I would go to currently.
Was more than happy to give them money after the difficult time they’ve had, but wouldn’t rush back on a busy day (ie. weekend, school holiday)
So I’ll be enjoying exploring the countryside round London on 2 wheels.
Many of the art galleries have activities for children on their websites e.g. weaving with plastic! Great for wet days. RA website.
Collecting autumn leaves for collages and cards. Bit messy if they fall apart but fun!
Painting pebbles into creatures like ladybirds or frogs.
Paper plates are really versatile for making dream catchers, stain glass windows etc.
Pine cone people or creatures with pipecleaners for arms etc
Many ideas for wet days and all ages.
BUT, can't beat a good walk whatever the weather!
https://www.goodgym.org/areas/bexley/happenings/community-missions
Have never really done it in the past as I’ve usually been at Charlton on a Saturday.