Jags give suggestions on ways to have fun while staying safe this winter

The following story was written by a student on the staff of The Jaguar Times as part of Hilliard Bradley High School’s Journalism Production course.

by Anna Alford, Staff Writer

Addison Crace (12) and her boyfriend visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to see the lights. Photo by Addison Crace.

The holiday season is normally a fun time to be around friends and family, but with covid still present it can be difficult. It’s important to continue to socially distance and wear a mask during these times. If you’re looking for something to do this winter there are some fun and safe activities below provided by the Bradley students and staff!

Junior, Alex Voght, said the zoo is a fun place to enjoy winter festivities. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a short trip away in Powell, and it’s easy to social distance from other groups. Voght says “the whole environment feels very safe, and I was able to enjoy some normalcy in a crazy year.” Recently the Columbus Zoo updated their Covid operations statement and said “if you are medically able and 10 years old and older, you are required to have a mask that covers your nose, mouth and chin for the duration of your visit while on Zoo grounds.” With covid guidelines set in place, the zoo will bring lots of safe winter fun.

Zoom is also a great way to stay in contact with friends and family. There are many games you can play while on Zoom. Mrs. Alonso Bartels uses Zoom to talk with her students for “Kahoot, quizlet live and videos (songs) to help them learn new vocabulary.” Zoom is great for learning, but it’s also useful for fun activities. Games such as Kahoot, Yahtzee, or Pictionary are just as entertaining and still capable of being played on Zoom.

Another fun winter activity that covid won’t affect is sledding. Senior, Malachi Haynes, says that “sledding is always fun, and it’s a great activity that won’t be affected by covid.” There are plenty of small and large hills in the Columbus area, and it’s nice to do regular activities that you would any other year. It’s also easy to social distance from other people, and a mask will help you stay warm!

This time can be very difficult, especially when trying to connect with friends and family. It’s important to have a positive mindset and stay safe. With plenty of activities to do this winter, make sure to practice social distancing and wear a mask.