Some places around the world are starting to open to indoor dining including New Providence, but is it a good idea?

The parents and students I know all seem to have similar thoughts on indoor dining in New Providence. They all think being socially distanced is a key part in our safety.

‘‘I’m still more comfortable with outdoor dining but I think as long as everyone is socially distanced it should be ok,’’said Cathy Killian, a New Providence resident. ‘‘My only concern is who’s dining together without masks. If it’s from the same household it’s fine but it seems impossible for friends to be safe dining together indoors without wearing masks.’’

“I believe restaurants should remain open as long as they enforce mask usage and social distance,” Priscilla Senger, a senior at New Providence High School. “ I think that restaurants have done a good job at remaining afloat by adapting to the current situation by providing delivery and options.”

Many also mention how wearing masks are important. Obviously you can’t eat while wearing a mask, but everyone agrees that this is a precaution they are looking for in a restaurant.

“I think indoor dining is good for some people as long as it is safe and all of the staff are wearing protective gear,” Megan Huber, a sophomore at New Providence High school. “I personally would not do indoor dining because I don’t want to be unsafe. I think most people follow socially distancing rules but there are always a few people that don’t follow the rules and have parties with no masks or don’t distance in public places.”

The people I interviewed agree that local restaurants are doing a good job this year with all the adjustments. They are taking safety precautions very seriously.

“I prefer outdoor dining because I love the fresh air and scenery,” Alicia Shi, a sophomore at New Providence High School. “Additionally I think they are doing a good job because they always sanitize after every person is done eating their food.”

Even Elementary students think diners are doing a good job this year.

“I think indoor dining would only get shut down if people are breaking the rules,” said Connor Killian, a sixth grader at Allen. W. Roberts. “Employees are doing a really good job following the rules to keep us safe. I haven’t done indoor dining but I would consider doing it because they are doing a good job.”