Due to the coronavirus and social distancing, many of us are unexpectedly at home with our families, roommates, or by ourselves right now. We don’t know how long this will last, but we do know one thing: it’s a unique opportunity to connect, grow closer, and make memories with those around us.
Here are a few ways to make the most of your time!
1. Watch zoo animals on Facebook Live
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is letting you enjoy their cute creatures without having to pay for admission (or push your stroller around for miles on end).
They’re hosting a Home Safari on Facebook Live each weekday at 2:00 pm CT where they will highlight one of their amazing animals and include an activity you can do from home.
Be sure to tune in at facebook.com/cincinnatizoo
2. Take a virtual field trip
Art museums, aquariums, travel destinations, and more! Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you can’t explore and learn more about the world around you.
Do it all from the comfort of your own home by visiting this link.
3. Host a Netflix-watching party
Miss hanging out with your Small Group? Now, you don’t have to be in the same place to enjoy a movie night together!
Thanks to the “Netflix Party” extension on Google Chrome, you can synchronize video playback on your favorite Netflix shows and movies while a group chat lets you all comment about it in real-time.
4. Dance and sing along to VBS songs
Your kids may be looking forward to this year’s “Rocky Railway” VBS, but let’s be honest, they probably still remember all the words to last year’s theme, “ROAR!”
Let them belt out their favorites and burn off some energy with this Spotify playlist.
Or introduce your children to the classic Christian songs that you sang when you were little! Bonus points if you still remember the hand motions.
5. Write encouraging letters to loved ones
When was the last time you wrote a physical letter — pen, paper, stamps, and all?
Now’s the perfect opportunity to update your long-distance BFF on what God’s been doing in your life (and ask them to fill you in on what’s been going on with them as well). Or you can help your kids write a heartfelt note to their grandparents expressing just how much they appreciate them.
Our loved ones need to hear from us now more than ever during these hectic and unpredictable days, and letters are a great, personal way to reach out to family and friends!
6. Have fun with your kids through daily activities from HPUMC Kids
Instead of just surviving the days, we want to help you make the extra time you have at home meaningful and fun. That’s why Amanda Garman, Associate Director of Children’s Ministry, has put together some exciting activities you can do with your kids each day, from Bible stories and printable placemats to building forts and more.