by Caryl Teh

Being at home all the time might be heaven for introverts like me. But if you’re going bored out of your mind or your patience is running out for your spouse or kids, here’s some fun things you could do by yourself, or better yet, together, to make the most of your time at home.

1. Do arts & crafts together

It’s just timely… why not learn how to make your own face mask? There are plenty of crazy creative videos and tutorials that take you through step by step DIY face masks.

2. Prepare snacks & meals together!

P.s. I don’t really need to explain why this section is the longest, do I? We’re Malaysians. ‘Nuf said.

1. Here’s some simple recipes to try as recommended by a Malaysian.
2. Or maybe you’re craving Spanish food?
3. Did you know you can make bread with just 3 simple ingredients?
4. Perhaps you wanted some culinary inspiration from Jamie Oliver.
5. Or wanted to learn from Gordon Ramsay.
6. And if that’s not enough because you have an army that still needs feeding, check out these youtube channels. 

It’s also a chance for you to teach your children about hygiene while you clean up!

3. Learn a new language: Duolingo

There are a lot of free language resources out there, but I personally recommend duolingo as an excellent starting point. It gives you a taste of any language you might be interested in, with a very helpful student discussion forum and moderators who respond promptly to any problems you might have.

4. Learn a new skill: Skill Share

Skillshare lets you explore your creative side by learning more about animation, design, photography, and so much more.

5. Take an online course: EdX

No matter what subject, school, or workload you’re looking for, EdX has something for everyone. You get to pick and choose, and meet new classmates from all over the world! (p.s. this learning oasis existed long before COVID-19, so you don’t have any reason at all to feel shy just because you’re new to online learning because tonnes of other people will be too!)

6. Give your kids some extra homework

For national or government school students: Learn from Home

For supplementary or interest topics: Khan Academy & Brilliant

Khan Academy teaches you a lot of tips and tricks in mathematics and science that makes learning much more enjoyable and engaging. And with schools closed, they’re providing free resources so your kids can keep learning from home!

Brilliant builds quantitative skills in math, science, and computer science with fun and challenging interactive explorations. And they have a new challenge everyday so you won’t run out of learning material!

7. Read together: Audible

Ah yes, story-telling. Many of my fond childhood memories are of listening to fascinating and captivating tales from around the world. You may not be an expert story-teller, but you won’t have to worry about that with Audible. Audible gives you the freedom to experience a well-told story with your loved-ones (or alone) without having to strain your eyes or your voice or acting skills! 

Bonus tip: watching educational videos on youtube like scishow, minutephysics, and smartereveryday often give you promotional codes to enjoy premium access to many of these sites at a discounted rate. 

8. Sing together!

Who knows? Maybe someone in your family has a hidden vocal talent, but you never had the chance to discover it until you were stuck together in the same place… all the time. 

Check out this family of 6

Alternatively, do a parody from your children’s favourite shows.