B.C.’s top doctor says its perfectly safe for kids to be playing outside this summer, but she is preaching caution.

Dr. Bonnie Henry notes children under the age of 10 are less likely to be infected with COVID-19, and are also less likely to spread the virus to other people.

“Keep the groups of kids together as small as possible, and yes, we need parents to maintain our safe distances,” she said.

“We do know that for young kids as well, its challenging for them to understand what a metre is or two metres is, and the focus really should be on avoiding physical contact with the children who are outside your immediate family, and your immediate bubble.”

As COVID-19 restrictions approach the five month mark, Henry says spending time outdoors is beneficial for both your mental and physical health.

“The basics really are still the same. Smaller numbers. Get outside, its perfectly safe to play outside and its better for us all,” she added.

“Washing your hands carefully before we go out and the after we’ve been playing, particularly before we have meals and things like that. We also know that this virus is not spread through water particularly in pools when its been chlorinated. As well, its killed quite easily by ultraviolet light, so when we’re outside that’s better.”

Henry did say it is important for parents to maintain their safe distance when at the playground or splash parks with the kids.