Drive-Thru Playdates Give Families Safe Alternative To Interact During COVID-19 Pandemic

Whether you're stopping and playing for awhile, or just driving through, a Tulsa based non-profit has playgroup options for your family.

We stopped by Building All Children's recent in-person playgroup in Tulsa, and a drive-thru playgroup in Jenks. Kendra Morgan is the Executive Director and Founder.

"Families are feeling alone. And we don't want them to feel alone. We want them to feel supported," Morgan said. "The minute When knew COVID was shutting things down, we knew we were not going to stop serving."

Since March, Building All Children has hosted a monthly drive-thru playgroup at rotating church sites. Just hang a tote bag out of your window, while masked and gloved volunteers drop in reading materials, a Bible if you want one, they'll pray for you, too. They'll also add in seasonal crafts, paint, paper, things from nature, anything to help spark your child's curiosity. Lauren Bryan organizes these drive-thrus.

"We had no idea if anyone would come. We ended backing up Lewis Avenue," Bryan said.

"You run out of things to do, and it's nice to have that variety," said parent Kellie Moss.

"We love them. So many great activities to do at home," parent Rachel Magnuson said.

The kids appear to love it, too but are either camera shy or scared of our camera.

"I got stuff for Thanksgiving," said five-year-old Wyatt Hales.

The Smiths were really wanting small, in-person gatherings with other kids. Mary Smith homeschools two sons and a daughter.

"I enjoy being out and giving all of us a break. He was so excited," Smith said. "They're not going to look back on this time later and say that it was horrible or terrible. Good memories."

There are many COVID requirements for these in-person groups: masks are required for adults, you have to sign-up ahead of time, space is limited to a handful of families, and they're planning to have more after January.

"If we can get them ready for Kindergarten, it helps the whole community," Morgan said.

The organization is still fundraising, as well. Recently, they hosted a virtual game night on Zoom with families. You had to donate $100 to get a game box, filled with goodies and bingo boards. The proceeds go to playgroups, one-on-one reading help, anything that helps build and develop Children.