It’s March 2020 and the world is in self-isolation because of the coronavirus. Was social distancing even a thing before this?
I’m going on a partial media fast because of all the fear that’s growing. Too many people are focusing inwardly to handle the fear – the problem is they’re forgetting about their neighbour.
I also see a lot of goodness coming from this. People are starting to look up from their phones and notice the people around them.
So how do we balance caring for our neighbours while keeping our families safe?
Let’s keep it simple and kid-friendly by putting together a care package – porch drop off or digital ideas to follow!
assembling the care package
Ease the loneliness (and stir-craziness) for the elderly or a quarantined family by assembling some simple items around your home.
(Obviously if you have any symptoms of anything, hold off on making the physical packages until it is safe to do so. Otherwise, you can always opt for the digital version).
You don’t need to go out to the stores to buy anything new.
Food
Making a freezer meal or your dessert specialty is always appreciated. Keep in mind any allergies.
The kids could help you make them. See my post on gift baskets for some easy recipes kids can make.
Digital Idea:
Include some of your go-to recipes or a gift card to a grocery store that delivers.
You could also send a gift card to a restaurant that you would both use at a later date when this is all over and celebrate – always nice to have something to look forward to and it supports the local businesses that are still open.
Activities
If you’re delivering to someone you know well, why not repurpose a bit? Loan out some games, movies, CDs or puzzles your family has gotten tired of.
Include some activity or colouring books you’ve never gotten around to opening.
Digital Idea:
Send a gift card for iTunes.
Have the kids colour in this Puzzle Template and email it as a memorable version of a card. If you want a professional puzzle done with one of your photos, you can always go to a print and copy website.
Record and send a “karaoke” version of your family singing your favourite tunes for a pick-me-up. It will bring a smile to both your faces every time you listen.
Send a list of your favourite craft websites, youtube channels, or online tv shows that you think they would be interested in.
encouragement
Include flowers, write cards, have the kids draw pictures.
Consider sending some prayers and Scripture verses on your card.
If they have a loved hobby or passion, make sure to include it for a thoughtful touch.
Digital Idea:
Add humour! It can be hard to stay upbeat in this time, so add some cheesy jokes, or better yet, have the kids record their favourites.
Send a list of your favourite comedy go-tos.
If the care package is for family, and you have creative kids in the house, have them make their own colouring pages or game show to send (here’s a list of free game show templates): it could be Jeopardy-style with family questions or something unique. Videotape it – they will have a blast!
delivering the care package
You have control whether you want to do a porch drop-off or send a care package by email.
What goes into the package isn’t the important thing. The whole purpose is to let someone know they’re not alone. They are loved and supported.
What a beautiful gift for your neighbour AND for your children. You’re teaching them how to love no matter what circumstance they find themselves in. Which items will you put in your care package?
read more:
- An Outside the Box Gift Guide (for kids)
- 5 Kitchen Skills your kids can learn now
- Keep your kids busy for hours with this 5 minute trick
- How to create a strategic home learning schedule
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