GCQ for Kids Update: Minors In Metro Manila Aren’t Allowed Outside Again
And yes, it’s because of the rising number of COVID-19 cases
Just when we received news that local travel rules were eased, the MMDA announced that starting Wednesday, March 17, minors aged 17 and below will be prohibited from going outdoors. Yup, you heard that right — our kids aren’t allowed outside again. No more walks in the park, fresh air and sunshine. The GCQ rules have been changed again, and it’s going to hit our kids hard.
What it means for parents
According to a Facebook post, the MMDA is drafting a resolution that prohibits minors, particularly aged 15-17 to go outdoors for two weeks or until the end of the month.
<insert FB post>
This announcement follows an alarming surge of COVID-19 cases in the Metro Manila area, where cases have reached a record high for 2021 of 5,404 new coronavirus cases. It seems like it was only yesterday Metro Manila mayors were easing restrictions on minors.
WHAT PARENTS CAN DO
Since being outdoors is out of the question for the next few weeks, we’ve got some tips on how to keep the kids busy during GCQ:
1. Prep them for Easter
Keeping kids entertained during GCQ isn’t easy especially if they’re used to being outdoors. We say prep your little bunnies with our easy peasy Easter activities!
2. Introduce them to your favorite Disney princesses
Share your love for Disney with your little ones and give ’em the 411 on the most kickass Disney princesses to date. We’ve got our faves right here!
3. Try some sensory play
Sensory play can be messy but it can buy you a good half an hour of me-time. Check out Teacher Camille’s fave sensory play activities and find out why they’re good for learning too!
4. Have an 80’s movie marathon
Big hair don’t care. Bring back the 80’s and school the kids on what movies were like pre-CGI. Check out Modern Parenting writer TJ Abat lists all the flicks on his family’s watch list for movie night.
5. Play some board games
Bring on the friendly competition with some board games! Not only are they a great distraction from screens, it’s also as sneaky way to get kids to put their thinking caps on. Read here for all our family friendly faves.
Being stuck indoors doesn’t have to be so bad. All you need is a little creativity and patience while you weather this new kid lockdown together. You’ve got this!
