What To Do When You’re Stuck At Home

Two poetry books on top of a scrapbook made by Becky Wood. Photo courtesy of Becky Wood.

Right now we are all stuck in the house because of the quarantine, and most of us are extremely bored! In light of these circumstances, I decided to create a list of ideas to help you keep busy. Though this list is specific to the quarantine right now it can also help on rainy days, any day you are feeling bored, or when you are stuck at home. Keep reading for a list of suggestions to keep yourself entertained while stuck at home!

 

  • Productivity- If you want to do something productive instead of just relaxing, try one of the ideas below:
    • Read a book
    • Teach your dog (or whatever pet you may have) a new trick
    • Get ahead on schoolwork
    • Write a story or a poem
    • Start a scrapbook
    • Do a crossword puzzle
    • Do a puzzle

 

  • Learn something new- We’re constantly learning, and now that we are spending less time at school you have an opportunity to teach yourself something new!
    • Start to learn a new language
    • Learn how to paint
    • Learn how to edit pictures
    • Follow an online DIY project
    • Learn something you’ve always wanted to.  You have plenty of time on your hands.

 

  • Make something- We are all capable of creation. Whether it is an art piece or food, it can be fun to do!
    • Cook a meal or a snack
    • Create your own song
    • Bake something for you and your family or even yourself! 
    • Make a piece of Jewelry
    • Create a craft out of Popsicle sticks and cotton swabs
    • Build a birdhouse
    • Construct a doghouse
    • Start a garden, spring is the perfect time!
    • Knit a scarf
    • Anything else you think of!

 

  • Just for fun- Today you might feel like relaxing but want to do something other than binge your favorite TV show. These ideas below may help:
    • Play video games
    • Practice any instrument you may have (if any). Otherwise sing, dance, draw, or paint
    • Practice your art skills- there are many tutorials online.
    • Rediscover your Webkinz account!
    • Take a virtual tour of a museum or art gallery
    • Order takeout
    • Use a face mask
    • Have a spa day
    • Paint your nails. If you want to improve your skills in nail arts, you may take online glitterbels courses.
    • Do yours or someone else’s makeup
    • Take a nap

 

  • Social: Although we are all practicing social distancing, we can still interact with our friends or even make new friends. We are all stuck in our houses with our families, so we may as well try to have some fun with them.
    • Find a pen pal
    • Write a letter to a friend or family member
    • Use a group FaceTime app such as Houseparty, Zoom, Google Hangouts, etc.
    • Play iMessage games with your friends
    • Build a fort and have a movie night with your siblings/family
    • Host a game night
    • Hold a family competition
      • Baking
      • Cooking
      • Singing
      • Dancing
      • Costume
      • Art
      • Any other ideas you come up with!
    • Try playing Jackbox TV or another multiplayer game with your family

 

  • Fitness- We are all at home and aren’t being forced to exercise during PE, but it is important to still exercise to remain healthy.
    • Follow an exercise routine on YouTube
    • Go for a hike, jog, or walk
    • Use any exercise equipment you may have
    • Meditate
    • Try yoga
    • Find a fitness instructor on YouTube

 

  • If the weather is nice- We aren’t allowed to gather in large groups, but that doesn’t mean we can’t go outside. We still need sunlight!
    • Go on a walk
    • Sit outside and read 
    • Play catch
    • Play basketball
    • Play soccer
    • Play volleyball
    • Play outside with your dog
    • Go on a hike (Depending on your age, be with an adult to stay safe!)

 

We are all scared and worried about when we will be able to see our friends again, but we should remain focused on the positives. We are all able to take a break from any stress that may be caused by school or social drama. We are also quarantined with our families, which gives us an opportunity to reconnect with each other. We are also officially in Spring, so the weather outside is perfect and we are no longer stuck inside our rooms. I hope you find these ideas useful and are able to find some comfort in knowing that we are all adjusting and going through this together!