But amid the coronavirus pandemic, the word from health officials all over the world is quite the opposite.
The message is: ‘be anti-social.’
At least in person.
“Usually, we do tell our kids to visit and have fun and socialize,” said Calgary pediatrician Dr. Peter Nieman. “But the problem is this all calls for a different approach. And essentially what pediatricians are saying is, ‘Don’t have playmates over, stay separate as much as possible and don’t socialize.’
“Ideally, it’s about having minimal contract, so the headline here is: ‘Do whatever you can to try and minimize the risk of spreading this virus,’ ” said Nieman, adding that parents should direct themselves to the healthychildren.org website. “The gurus recommend to keep your kids away from others or keep them at home.”
One of those in the know is Ellen Percival, the longtime publisher/editor-in-chief of Calgary’s Child magazine, who is quick to tell Calgarians to have children practise social distancing just as adults have been asked to do.
“Remind them and yourselves that you can keep yourself safe if you follow the rules,” Percival said. “Unfortunately, for now, that physical distance that we need . . . to keep each other safe precludes playdates.”
So playdates are out.
But playgrounds?
“We know that this virus can live on plastics and metals for up to three days,” Percival said. “We’re seeing Cochrane has already taken that step (to close playgrounds as of Saturday). Very likely we might see the same recommendations coming to us.”
Use of the playground equipments has been prohibited in Cochrane to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Photographed on Sunday, March 22, 2020 is a playground at Sunset Road and Sunset Boulevard in Cochrane. Azin Ghaffari/Postmedia
Meanwhile, Percival says, it’s best to err on the side of caution and follow the lead of other communities until we get direction from our chief medical officer.
That means staying away from playgrounds.
“Let’s paint a scenario,” said Nieman. “Take a beautiful day like (Sunday) at the playground and there’s no one else there, so there’s no other kid there to infect them. But, apparently, this virus can stick to surfaces, too, and that’s a problem.”
Percival says it’s best to gather yourself and the requisite information before sitting down to explain to your children the situation at hand.
“That will help kids feel a little bit more under control,” Percival said. “And it will help you as a parent to explain to kids that the playground is just not the right place to go right now.”
Instead, adds Percival, kids can talk on the phone with friends.
Or FaceTime with buddies.
The calgaryschild.com website also has plenty of innovative ideas to help kids stay busy in a safe manner inside or outside the house.
Or better yet, make the most of the situation by spending time with family in the home, while, of course, maintaining that social barrier.
“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade — spend time together, make good memories and laugh,” said Nieman. “And it’s good to go out and soak up the sun.
“But, yes . . . avoid contact. Unusual times call for unusual advice.”
Use of the playground equipments has been prohibited in Cochrane to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Photographed on Sunday, March 22, 2020 is a playground at Sunset Road and Sunset Boulevard in Cochrane. Azin Ghaffari/Postmedia
So with that in mind, Nieman has guidance about what we should do to protect our kids during this pandemic.
“Feed your children healthy food to boost the immunity naturally,” Dr. Nieman said. “That’s usually food rich in colour, especially dark, dark berries. They have a lot of antioxidants and vitamins and nutrients. If there’s any time to focus on doing one’s best to get fruits and vegetables into our kids, certainly this has to be that time.”
Nieman lists a few go-to staples, such as apples, oranges, pears, mangoes, bananas and berries.
“Pulverize and disguise it and camouflage the taste — like with Greek yogurt — and get it into them,” Nieman said. “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
And in these times, we should heed whatever advice that can help us keep our children healthy.
“Gurus and the people who should know about infectious diseases are saying, ‘Shucks, guys, we actually don’t know. We’re learning with you as we go along,’” Nieman added. “At first, it was the vulnerable people, but we’re seeing more and more those articles that indicate younger people are vulnerable.”
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
