Our weekend updates will look a little different for a while — and for good reason. We at Little Rock Family encourage our readers to follow the CDC’s guidelines for social distancing like avoiding groups of 10 or more and maintaining a 6 foot radius from non-family members. 

That being said, we won’t be sharing event details for now. But don’t read us wrong, we still have a few ideas for lots of fun while we social distance the weekend away! 

Get Take Out to Support Local

Supporting local restaurants is more important than ever as Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. mandated that all bars and restaurants move to curbside, takeout and delivery services only. But you don’t have to skip it completely. The Little Rock Chamber of Commerce has a running list of how area restaurants are handling business right now. Check out this list and then treat your family to a fun, local meal. 

Safety Tip: Immediately remove food from containers and wash your hands as a family before eating.   

Do a Family Project 

Focusing on helping others will help keep your family positive during this departure from normal schedules. 

Send Some Love

Our oldest family members and friends are the highest risk for serious complications for COVID-19. That, of course, means visits are out for now. That also means feelings of isolation for the 80 and above set could be setting in. Consider sending handwritten notes and original artwork to local nursing homes and assisted living facilities to brighten someone’s day. Sending flowers or video chatting are also great ideas. 

Donate Food  

Area school districts, local programs and charities are working together to make sure that no child is hungry while school is out. Find out the latest details on the city of Little Rock’s website. There are also several local charities that you can support: 

  • Be Mighty Little Rock, a citywide campaign to connect kids and teens 18 and under to free meals, is accepting donations here. 

  • You can learn more about how to help the Arkansas Food Bank here. 

  • Ronald McDonald House, a charity that provides meals for families with Arkansas Children's Hospital patients, is accepting donations and grocery deliveries while they suspend their volunteer-based Supper Club. Learn more and donate here. 

Take a Hike

Social distancing calls for wide open spaces. And while playground equipment is not a great idea, a family hike is the perfect way to exercise, explore and enjoy the outdoors as a family. Check out this comprehensive map on Arkansas campsites to discover your next favorite corner of our state. 

Plug in with Your Favorite Places 

While community favorites like the Little Rock Zoo and the Museum of Discovery are closing their doors to keep staff and visitors safe, that doesn’t mean you can connect with your favorite places to play and learn online. Here are a few ways to tune in to what’s going on in our city and our area. 

Bedtime with Bach from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra

ASO members are performing and streaming short pieces that are soothing and perfect for bedtime. Like the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Facebook page to add a classical lullaby to your family’s nighttime routine.

“At Home Discoveries” with Museum of Discovery   

Museum staff are putting together videos to teach kids fun science lessons they can try while school is out. Like the Museum of Discovery Facebook page to start making discoveries today. 

Virtual Spring Break at the Little Rock Zoo

Starting today (March 19) zoo keepers will be hosting virtual talks at 2 p.m. everyday through March 29. Like the Little Rock Zoo Facebook page to follow along. 

The Pink Piano Show with Cliff & Susan

Oaklawn regulars Cliff and Susan Prowse are taking their show to Facebook for free, kid-friendly music. Tune in every Monday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m. until shows resume at Oaklawn.