Big Question: My soon to be four-year-old, an only child, is really missing the company of other children. Is it safe to schedule a play date?

The official take on playdates by the Center for Disease Control has not changed since the outset of the pandemic. Their guidelines state clearly that playdates are not recommended: "If children meet in groups, it can put everyone at risk. While school is out, children should not have in-person playdates with children from other households. If children are playing outside their own homes, it is essential that they remain 6 feet from anyone who is not in their own household." 

Young children are not capable of maintaining social distancing, which is the key to eliminating Coronavirus transmission. While your concerns about social isolation are understandable, participating in a playdate with another child is not recommended.

During the early years of childhood, your child's connection to you is their most important relationship, so I wouldn’t worry too much about their social development during this time. While we are all feeling the effects of isolation, your child will be fine with frequent interaction with others through phone calls and video chats.

It is tempting for all of us to see friends and have a get together with kids, but maintaining the recommendations now will go a long way in shortening this isolation period - for good.

Hang in there and be safe!