Family Stuck at Home? These Tips Can Help!

If you're feeling 'stuck' at home, remember this: you're not stuck at home, you're safe at home. But sometimes being safe and confined to one place for long periods of time (with the same people!!) can wear you down. Between homeschooling, working and taking care of a family, it's easy to get depressed or overwhelmed. Here are some simple tips to keep you sane during lockdowns, quarantine, or simply a long weekend.

Build Excitement for Upcoming Events

Having something to look forward to is extremely cathartic and can make being stuck at home a bit easier. If there’s a birthday coming up, get people excited about it, no matter what your plans are. Send out virtual invitations for ZOOM parties, hang some balloons, make a countdown chart- every little bit of enthusiasm helps! Easter is another celebratory event to look forward to. Think personalized Easter shirts for toddlers, new egg decorating ideas, fun crafts, or elaborate egg hunts. There might be landmark events coming up in your life like an anniversary, so plan something special! Have a mini party with those in your household, order take-out, or set up a special delivery. Life is always a little easier if there’s something to look forward to!

photo from Unsplash, L.Nada

Everyone Needs Downtime

When you’re together indoors all of the time, it can get pretty tough, especially if you’re in a smaller home or apartment. Remember to change your scenery- if you're sitting in the same place every day on the computer (for work or school), think abut changing your location every now and then. Try working in a different room or change position at your desk or table so you have a new view. If you're feeling 'crowded' at home with your family members, find your own space. Some kids have even been making 'clubhouses' inside closets just so they have their own quiet hideaway spot. You can even get a play tent and set it up indoors so kids have their own private space to hide in when they need it.

Stay in Touch with Family and Friends

Aren't we fortunate that technology allows us to see and hear our family and friends from afar? Zoom, Google Hangouts, Facetime, Skype, and Facebook Messenger are just some of the ways you can connect with loved ones while at home. Set up regular online/virtual meets with your friends and family, just like you would in person. Seeing the ones you love, even in virtual format, can really lift spirits and remind us that we're not alone.

photo from Unsplash, C. Montgomery

Exercise!

There are plenty of online workout videos you can do at home (just search on YouTube and you'll see!). Kids love the online site called GoNoodle for exercise fun. Get into the routine of exercising daily. Going out for a walk or run is easy and doesn't have to take all day. A ten minute walk or bike ride outdoors can do a world of good!