2020 is not going according to plan…am I right?

That being said, I never expected being quarantined for weeks on end. Schools are closed, there are traveling bans in place,  PCS’s, deployments and TDYs are halted. There is nothing we can do but just go along with the flow.

So while my family and I are on day 7 of quarantining I decided to come up with a list of  FREE things for everyone in the family to do to pass the time.

Podcasts

If you’re trying to limit screen time, or need something other than music or the news to listen to, try listening to a podcast! There are so many great podcasts for everyone’s own special  interests…so you are sure to find one that peaks your interest.  

Games

Bring out the ole Board games and cards!

Try some of these awesome family games: (https://www.todaysparent.com/family/activities/10-kid-friendly-card-games/#gallery/kid-friendly-card-games/slide-1)

https://www.fatherly.com/play/activities/best-indoor-games-for-kids-and-families-coronavirus-quarantine/

Online Learning

Since school is out, keep those young brains sharp with some fun online learning.

Tried and True Blog put together this extensive list of FREE Educational Websites while we are being quarantined…be sure to check them out!

Audio Books

I’m surviving by listening to Audio books.  I get them for FREE by using the Libby APP through my library.

See if your Library has the Libby App, if they do, use your library card to sign up and you can checkout audiobooks and e-readers all on one app for FREE 🙂

Audiobooks is also streaming FREE titles for kids and families during this time.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/tech/audible-is-providing-free-audiobooks-for-children-teens-during-covid-19-pandemic/story-i5yhhHmNAC4w6EfSwG85dO.html

Book Readings 

So many great opportunities to see our kids favorite author read their books and show them how to draw their favorite characters!

Just a few we have enjoyed:

Mo Willems

https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/mo-willems/

Astronauts in Space

https://storytimefromspace.com/

ALSO…If you haven’t already, Join in on our Book Clubs! We have one for young readers and adult readers.

Movies and TV Shows

Have a show you’ve been dying to watch? Now is the time! Many Networks are even putting new movies and shows out for our enjoyment.

One thing my family has found much enjoyment out of is watching Sugar Rush and The Great British Baking Show…

We watch and then have a family friendly bake off competition! If you have everything you need at home, create your own baking competition!

Puzzles

Puzzles, an oldie but goodie and always gets everyone engaged!

Science Experiments

First off, if you haven’t done this quick and easy experiment on the importance of  hand washing, grab your kids and try it out!  My girls and I had a great time doing this teachable experiment, and they learned the importance of soap and hand-washing.

Here are other great experiments that require what most of us already have at home to keep our kids busy 🙂

Spring Cleaning

What better time to get that Spring cleaning done?!? Make a list and Do a little bit every day.

https://www.thespruce.com/spring-cleaning-a-complete-checklist-1900106

Virtual Tours and Field Trips

Travel the world with your kids for FREE from your COUCH:

https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/d/1SvIdgTx9djKO6SjyvPDsoGlkgE3iExmi3qh2KRRku_w/mobilebasic

Go Outside

Thankfully, going outside is still allowed, so take advantage of the great outdoors by going for a walk, hike, picnic or bike ride 🙂

Amp up your next walk with a rainbow hunt get all your neighbors involved without making contact…this is a great way to bring everyone together without physically bringing everyone together.

Scavenger Hunts

Whether outside or indoor scavenger hunts are always fun…for everyone 🙂

https://www.thescrapshoppeblog.com/indoor-outdoor-scavenger-hunt-free/

Try Out New Recipes

https://www.mymilitarysavings.com/recipes

https://wflanews.iheart.com/content/2020-03-16-5-cheap-easy-dinner-recipes/

When all else fails and you just need a break, grab a Quarantini (any fun adult beverage) and check out Quarantine Chat to talk to others, if you are feeling lonely…or need to talk to someone other than your family 😉