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Easy College Meals to Prepare in Advance
CollegiateParent
Now that we’ve adapted to socializing outdoors and enjoying the fall weather, it’s time to adapt again. As winter approaches, we’re understandably concerned about how to continue safely spending time with family and friends — especially over the holidays.
Here are ideas for socializing safely with loved ones when the weather outside is frightful — perfect for your family, and for your college student and their friends, too.
Pandemic pods and social circles help groups of friends or family socialize while staying safe. The idea is that people within the pod do their best to reduce exposure while out in public (wearing masks, social distancing, etc.) so that when the group is together, they can relax a little on the rules.
You may not think of yourself as a karaoke person, but I promise private rooms are an incredibly fun way to spend your night! Pick a private karaoke experience near you and invite some friends to rent out a room together. You can all join in the fun no matter who has the microphone, and if you happen to have a shy friend or two, they may find it easier to sing for people they know rather than a group of strangers.
My friends and I recently went to Voicebox Karaoke in Denver, and felt incredibly safe the entire time. As part of their COVID-19 measures, they did temperature checks at the door, only permitted one group into the check-in area at a time, and thoroughly sanitized and ventilated each karaoke suite between uses.
Escape rooms have been quick to adapt to coronavirus health guidelines and are an easy way to get out of the house while staying within your pandemic social circle.
Many businesses have implemented temperature checks at the door as well as thoroughly sanitizing rooms between uses. Check out the guidelines at your local escape rooms and make a reservation for your pod. You're all sure to have fun trying to solve the puzzle together, while staying blissfully warm (and socially distant) indoors.
This winter may be the perfect time to develop (or revisit) game nights! We have some ideas for online games to play with family and friends over video call as well as board games to enjoy with your pandemic pod. Don't forget the snacks if you're settling in for a longer game.
If you have a patio or backyard, it might be worth investing in a fire pit this winter. There are discount options on Amazon, and you should easily find one to fit your needs and budget.
If your student doesn’t have access to a backyard, it’s possible their apartment complex has communal fire pits outdoors or maybe their friends have access to one. Pile on the blankets and supplies for s’mores and get cozy.
Alternatively, you might consider moving some older furniture into the garage to create a hangout space there. Pick up a couple of space heaters to ward off the winter chill, and crack open the garage door to permit airflow. Provide lots of blankets and hot chocolate or hot spiced cider to warm you from the inside out!
Check back in as we share more of our favorite tips for staying warm this winter. We’ve got bundles of heated clothing and accessories to help chase the cold away!
Find the CDC's guidelines for socializing during the holidays here >
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