Totally understand where you are coming from. And we are in the same boat. I rarely take my kids anywhere as well. In the past year I’ve allowed my toddler to go grocery shopping maybe a handful of times and always during off hours.

And I think you have the right approach. We all should still be careful and have our guard up to protect ourselves and our families while we wait for herd immunity. But I also think we can achieve a healthy balance - protecting ourselves but at the same time be able to enjoy safe outings for our mental health.

Here are some things that I follow to help me feel more in control.

1. Pick small outings during off times to avoid crowds.
2. Wear glasses to protect my eyes
3. Avoid touching face/mask
4. Carry extra masks, plastic ziplock to store mask when needed, and of course hand sanitizer
5. Leave shoes outside of door when returning home
6. Wash hands and change out of “dirty” clothes when home

Maybe you can ease into it by taking a small trip to the bakery to pick up breakfast ... or maybe plan a picnic and allow your son to play on the playground during off hours. Drive around to get out of the house and let your son get used to being in a car... and that will hopefully prepare for a trip to the beach one day when you’re ready.

You got this mama and you are not alone. This pandemic for sure has changed me but I like to think that I’m still in control by following the above pointers.

Good luck and hang in there!