Its nearly a year since the beginning of the first lockdown. It’s easy and understandable to be gloomy and unhappy. This month is the United Nations’ International Day of Happiness (March 20th). Here at Bibetta we want to bring a bit of happiness, sparkle and cheer today by highlighting some of the positive things that have arisen during our time in lockdown.
Increased and more quality family time:
Many parents have stopped commuting and are working from home instead, spending more time at home with their children – and as some parents actively seek out new flexible or work from home opportunities, to avoid the exhaustion (and expense) of the daily commute. Maybe this improved work/family balance is here to stay, post lockdown…?
Starting new hobbies:
This year has seen a revival in family activities – whether it’s playing cards or old-fashioned board games such as Monopoly and Cluedo, jigsaws, baking, gardening, crafting or geocaching – having more time on our hands has allowed families with kids of all ages to get stuck into a fun activity or project together. Banana bread anyone?
Taking up exercise to improve fitness and wellbeing:
Joe Wicks kickstarted it for families with young children, getting the nation up every morning during lockdown to have fun while we work out (no wonder he was awarded an MBE) – and the past year has given families more time to get out together, whether for bikes rides, woodland walks or skateboarding. Not only is exercise essential for a child’s emotional and physical development, it’s a great way for families to interact.
Looking after a pet:
Being at home during the day has been the nudge some families needed to get a pet – and puppies in particular have given them a new focus, both for enjoyment at home and the chance to exercise outside together.
Using technology to connect with families and friends:
From Zoom quizzes with family to online video games played with the friends we can’t see in person; technology has played its part in bringing us closer to together during the pandemic. We’ll never take the Wi-Fi connection for granted again!
More opportunities to eat together as a family:
Sharing a meal together as a family is an important time to catch up, but due to increasingly busier schedules and long commutes we’ve lost sight of this ‘ritual’ in recent years. Lockdown has meant more time spent under the same roof – and the chance to cook and eat together. You can see some of our yummy recipes to cook and eat together here.
Understanding what and how your child learns at school:
While it’s admittedly been challenging on many levels, spending more time together has given some parents the opportunity to be on hand, to support and improve their children’s developmental, reading, writing and language skills – and really understand and appreciate the role of their teachers!
Not taking things for granted:
Having lots of restrictions placed on us, not being able to go out and socialise, buy something we want or go on holiday has given us time to think and reflect and be thankful for everything we have. Even the simple act of being grateful, can turn a difficult time into something positive: it can be as silly or simple as – chocolate ice cream, new socks or a sunny day!
Spring is almost on its way, we are all looking forward to getting back to a more ‘normal’ way of living, but let’s promise not to stop doing all of the new arrangements/activities we have started. We hope everyone is able find something to bring them joy and that we can all look forward to a brighter, happier year ahead.
