People are missing out on a lot of fun things because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Adults can pretty much handle the boredom and calling off plans for a birthday bash, but for kids, a birthday party is one those things you don't dare miss. Social distancing is an option, but can you really trust kids to lay off of each other?
We're all lucky we're now living at a digital age, a time wherein everything is possible as long as there's reliable internet. You can still host a birthday party, but you'll have to do it via virtual portals. It's not the same as having real visitors, but for now, we ought to stay safe inside our homes to finally put an end to the virus.
Roblox
Even before the coronavirus struck, Roblox was already a go-to for many kids. But because kids are now forced to stay at home, there's been a boom in usage in recent weeks. The online portal now has more than 120 million monthly active users, mostly kids and teenagers looking to socialize with real-life and virtual friends.
What's surprising is that Roblox can actually be a way to host in-game birthday parties. It's a good thing kids know how to celebrate and have fun despite the health crisis.
COVID-19 didn't stop these kids from having a fun birthday party with friends. They were playing Epic Minigames on #Roblox-a great example of the #metaverse in action! https://t.co/W8eNghlWIA @TypicalRBLX @lifehacker pic.twitter.com/n5G6wrEIYX — Roblox Corp (@InsideRoblox) March 27, 2020
Zoom URL
This is an option for those already using Zoom to socialize with family and friends. There's a new service called ZmURL, a free online tool that allows users to customize their video invite URL. It lets you type in a title, upload an image, a description of the invite, and there's also an RSVP requirement. RSVPs are for those you specifically invited, meaning those who only have the link are allowed to view the party.
Houseparty
Teenagers are pretty much familiar with Houseparty, a video chat app that you can use while on a desktop computer or your mobile phone. The app has seen a growth in usage as well because of quarantines and lockdown.
Houseparty may just be another group chat app, but what sets it apart from others is that you can play online games in the chat boxes. There are lots of free games to play, but of course, you also have the option of buying some games if you still have some to spare.
Caribu
Caribu may be the most ideal platform for little kids and toddlers. This video calling app is a great start to get your tiny tots to get over their awkwardness while talking to family and friends online. It lets kids play in-app games that's great for birthday parties such as word searches, Tic-Tac-Toe, and painting.
Of course, virtual birthday parties won't give the same experience as a real-life party would, but it's a smart way to hold an event that's important for kids and a great reminder that there are still things in this world worth celebrating.
