Rainbow trails, bear hunts take internet by storm during coronavirus lockdown
Rainbows and bears are being stuck on windows across Australia as parents take kids on colourful teddy-spotting treks — and more than 40,000 people have joined the movement in days. But some have slammed it as irresponsible.
Leader
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Thousands of parents are sticking rainbows and bears in their windows before taking their children on colourful teddy-spotting treks in neighbourhoods across Australia.
As the country brings in tighter restrictions — and Victoria closes schools before the holidays — in a bid to halt the spread of the COVID-19 virus, parents are increasingly turning to social media to find boredom-busting activities for their kids.
Almost 40,000 people have joined the Rainbow Trail Australia movement, sharing dozens — if not hundreds — of colourful photos since the group launched on Facebook on Saturday.
And the fun Bear Hunt neighbourhood trek — which Leader earlier this week reported was popular among Melbourne kids and parents, has gone national, with We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Australia attracting almost 7000 members — and photos from across the country.
Both initiatives have been applauded by parents, with one, Rachel, saying she went straight to the store to get supplies after seeing the Rainbow Trail group.
“We just wanted people to paint the world red!!! And Orange and yellow, green, blue, indigo and Violet,” Rachel posted.
Dominique said it was a great way to give children something to look for “in this time of uncertainty”.
“Kids won’t remember all the stress and anxiety if we get them to focus on the community spirit and having fun,” Dominique said.
But not everyone is impressed with children walking around neighbourhoods spotting bears and rainbows.
Kate, in a post on Facebook, said parents should “flatten the curve and stay home”.
“View the rainbow virtually. It’s important to get this virus gone,” she said.
Mia said she couldn’t believed what she was seeing.
“What the hell! Isn’t anybody listening,” Mia posted.
“At least the teddies are indoors.”
Rebecca said: “Clearly the “Stay Home” message is NOT getting through!”
The online phenomenon comes as Monash University senior education lecturer Michael Phillips told Leader social media interaction was important for children during lockdown.
“It’s important for parents to value their social interaction, and have time in the day where kids can social interact,” he said.
“It’s a safe bet to say young people feel confident to interact online.
“Parents should remember the value of these social interactions and have time in the day where their children are able to interact in the most normal way they can.”
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