Staying inside all the time is hard. Especially having three toddlers running around. They don’t understand why we can’t go to the store anymore or why the grandparents can’t visit. We have to do other things to keep busy. Here are five ways we are staying alive during quarantine.

1. Going on walks — We go outside every single day. Fresh air is so important right now. I always know when it’s time to go out by the way my kids are running in circles in the kitchen or racing back and forth in living room. We walk around our neighborhood or play in the backyard for at least an hour. It helps get out all that energy, plus it’s great exercise.
2. Staying connected — We may not be able to see anyone right now because of stay-at-home orders, but we can still video chat. My kids are used to seeing their grandparents every weekend. We try to video chat with family at least once a week. We’re so fortunate to have the ability to still “see” each other, despite not being together in person.
3. Lots of activities — I wanted us to do more than just watch movies and do therapy. So, I bought coloring books, puzzles, games, stamps, water colors. There’s educational activities like learning letters and numbers, books about emotions and feelings. And then there’s everything their teachers are sending us as well, which has been really helpful.
4. Splitting up the family — We don’t live in an apartment anymore. There’s actually space to spread out. Even different levels. Something we’ve never had before. When the kids get too rambunctious, my husband will take someone downstairs with him. Or I’ll take someone upstairs to the playroom. We moved just in time for quarantine. It’s nice not having to be in the same room as everyone else anymore.
5. Keeping a routine — My kids thrive on structure so we have somewhat of a routine still. They like knowing what’s going to happen next. We always go outside right before lunch time. We eat meals at the same time every day. We always do learning time in the morning when people are the happiest. They’re allowed to watch a show in the evening. They know this is what we do and it helps them.

These five things have helped my family immensely during the stay-at-home orders. Getting fresh air is good for my kids to let out some energy. Lots of activities and keeping routine is essential. Seeing family on video chat is important for our mental health. And having our own space keeps everyone sane.