The United States and the entire world are currently practicing social distancing to do their part in ensuring Covid-19 does not further spread.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges everyone to practice social distancing. Some states have attempted to aid the social distancing effort by closing restaurants, movie theaters, and other forms of entertainment and recommending the avoidance of social gatherings. Social distancing applies to family and friends who may have planned to gather for gender reveals parties, baby showers, and other pregnancy-related celebrations, leaving some pregnant women feeling as though their pregnancy milestones are not able to be celebrated.

As you prepare to welcome your little one, social distancing does not eliminate your ability to celebrate these occasions. They may just occur in a slightly different setting than you had originally planned! Celebrating the arrival of the newest member of the family can be done virtually. Here are some ideas to stay connected during this time of social distancing.

• Virtual Meet-Up

With today’s advancement in technology, it is not difficult to choose an online platform where you and your friends can gather online to celebrate. You can play games online and even open gifts with your loved ones sharing your excitement from a distance. With reliable internet connection, there are many options for you to choose from when considering online platforms. As long as your loved ones have a camera on their computer, they can see all your wonderful gifts and connect with you and your other virtual attendees. 

• Family and Friends Parade

What if you do not have reliable internet? Have you seen the parades of teachers practicing social distancing while greeting students from their respective cars? Send out paper invitations, a text, or a letter stating a time in which people can drive by your house (while respecting social distancing rules). They can share words of encouragement (from a distance), hold up a sign, or just wave as it is always nice to see a friendly face. If family and friends have sent you gifts for your newest addition to the family, you could open them on your lawn as they pass by so they can see your reaction. 

• Online Baby Registry

The convenience of online registries today provides easy shipment of the gift directly to the recipient. Your family and friends may even be able to include a special note to you through the online registry! 

• Plan Virtual Games and Activities

Don’t let the distance stop you from having the baby shower you imagined. You can spend a few minutes talking and catching up with your virtual guests and you can play games on your virtual meet-up. Choose a game that is easy, fun, and gets everyone to participate. You can even play digital versions of go to favorites by setting up a powerpoint and sharing your screen with others. 

• Decorate!

Putting up decorations is optional of course, but it can brighten up the atmosphere and make it more festive. You can decorate your baby shower as you have always planned. Your friends and family can see your decorations through the camera. If you are unable to use internet, consider decorations outside of your house or even a sign to show your loved ones how excited you are to see them (from a distance of course)!

• Say thanks!

Finally, do not forget to say “thank you” to your guests for the time and gifts. Whether that is through a virtual e-card, text, old-fashioned snail mail, or even phone call they will love to hear from you and know your appreciation. 

During these uncertain times we are all practicing social distancing and doing our part to limit the spread of Covid-19, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make meaningful connections in other ways and celebrate the excitement to come!