NORTH CAROLINA – Parents and children have been spending time inside while under Phase 2 of COVID-19 restrictions.

But now, parents like Julie Gray are meeting up with their friends to bring their kids back to the playground.

“It's nice to be able to finally get out and have the structures for him to play with,” Gray says.

While Gray would have loved to be able to do this sooner in the year, she understands the decision to keep playgrounds closed until now.

“I think it was a smart move, but I am very grateful that they have opened them all up,” she says.

She tells me she has some friends who are excited to bring their kids to the playground, and others who are still hesitant. But for her, she wanted to make sure her kid got to spend time with other kids.

“This is my 1 and a half year old's first time at the park really, and he is having a ball,” she adds.

Face coverings are still required under Phase 2.5. That's something Gray will respect, even while she's at the playground.

Outdoor mass gatherings under Phase 2.5 were increased to 50 people.