This year, in-person social gatherings aren’t possible in the interest of health and safety. Thankfully, technology can keep us connected. Keeping in touch can reduce feelings of isolation thereby increasing calm too. Here are some fun, and virtual, family activities to stay connected while we are apart.
1. Skype, FaceTime and Zoom calls
Check in with family and friends with video calls on Skype and FaceTime. Host family dinners over a Zoom meeting. A Happy hour on your laptop with everyone is a great way to enjoy a warm summer night with family.
2. Virtual book club
Get lost in a good book with the family. You could read your favorite chapter book aloud to young ones. Or, read a contemporary bestseller chapter by chapter in a more traditional book club format. Either way, sharing a good story will give you something new to share together.
3. Play games online
There are many online video games that are great to share at a distance. From racing games like Mario Kart to Scrabble or trivia – there is a video game for almost everybody and every budget. Jackbox Games are also a popular choice for a virtual game night.
4. Binge a show together
Using tools like Netflix Party, Amazon Prime Party or Scener, you can watch movies and TV shows together while apart. Or, you can always join Zoom and have everyone watch the same movie at once on their own TVs. Watching virtually is fun.
5. Host a virtual craft/hobby night
While social distancing, host a craft night. Whether it’s knitting, building with LEGOs, or making popsicle stick art, this one could become your new annual tradition.
There is no need to miss out on all the usual social gatherings, but now they will be on screen. However you choose to stay connected with family while social distancing, make it memorable and fun so the time flies.
