We all want to put 2020 behind us. For many of us, we look forward to what 2021 has in store.

Let us remain vigilant against COVID. Recommendations continue in regards to social distancing, wearing masks, sanitization and limiting person-to-person contact with others. While it may not be preferred, staying at home to celebrate the New Year is the best way to safely celebrate. Here are some simple ways we can safely ring in the New Year.

• Dress up or dress down. Don’t be afraid to dress up if you would have normalcy. On the flip side, families can make it a cozy night by having pajama parties.

• Host a virtual toast. Increasing in popularity, Zoom meetings are a great way of feeling connected. Have your favorite drink ready and make a pledge to a better new year with family and friends.

• Party like a rockstar! As tradition continues, the ball will drop in New York. Check your local television listings. Celebrities will be making appearances. Families can also celebrate by having living room dance parties and karaoke contests. It really is the perfect time to be silly (with a smaller audience).

• Appetizer bake-off. Who doesn’t love a New Year’s party with some unique appetizers and snacks? • Make it a competition. To make it even more challenging, use what is in your pantry already.

• Bring back the classic fun activities. Host a movie watch party or play some family board games. Families could also pick out or order a new game they have never tried before.

• Create a playlist. Have everyone come prepared with a few songs for a “Party in 2021” mix. Use a free platform like Spotify to create a shared playlist.

• Be thankful. Invite everyone to say one thing they’re thankful for in 2020. This is a great way to teach children the power of positive thinking.

• Make a prediction. Have each family member make a prediction about someone else in the house. Write them down and share them next New Year’s Eve, when you’re ringing in 2022.

• Go crazy. Buy the noisemakers and confetti poppers. Make a mess, create chaos and have a good time.

We can all look back on 2020 and reflect on how bad it was or we can reflect on the joys we experienced. Spend this New Year’s Eve creating and experiencing joy with the family. You will never regret more time spent with family, I promise!

Happy New Year from the Iowa River Valley Early Childhood Area Board, its director and the service providers!

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Carrie Kube is a director for the

Iowa River Valley Early Childhood Area Board.