Tag: Covid19

Guide to ordering takeout during the pandemic

Ordering takeout is a great way to give yourself a break from cooking and support a local business during the pandemic. But you may have some questions about the best way to order delivery to keep yourself and others as safe as possible.

Medical professionals have commented on ordering takeout, saying that the risk of transmission of COVID-19 is incredibly low. This means that ordering takeout is a relatively safe activity. There are some tips you can follow to help make the experience of ordering takeout as comfortable as possible.

Look at reviews for restaurants in your area

There are multiple platforms that allow customers to leave reviews for restaurants. This includes Google, Skip the Dishes, and Uber Eats. Customer reviews can give you a good idea of the food quality and the safety of the restaurant.

Check restaurant websites for COVID-19 statements

Most restaurants have posted a COVID-19 safety statement, detailing what their response has been to the pandemic.

Take advantage of curbside pick-up

Many restaurants are offering take-out through what is called curbside pickup. This means you drive to the restaurant and pick it up yourself. Many restaurants have safety measures in place

Use online delivery services

There are several ways to support restaurants during the pandemic, including takeout and delivery. While take-out is a good option, delivery may be best if you are trying to limit how often you leave your house. Some restaurants offer in-house delivery options, but many use online delivery services such as Skip the Dishes and Uber Eats. These online services require you to make an account. Once you log in, you are able to place an order at participating restaurants in your delivery area.

Keep in mind that when using an online delivery service, there will be additional fees and tips for the driver that will be added to your bill. You will have to pay by debit or credit card on the website.

When placing your order, you can include instructions for the driver (for example, “ring doorbell” or “leave food on the porch”).

Once the order is placed, you will be able to track the status/progress of your order through the website.

Ask delivery personnel to leave food at the door or on the porch

The safest way to order food is to limit your contact with others. This includes the delivery personnel. Ask them to leave your food on the front porch or your doorstep. If you live in an apartment building, you could meet them in the lobby and ask them to put the food down a safe distance from you. If you absolutely must take the food directly from delivery personnel, wear a mask and wash your hands before and after.

If you can, give your delivery driver a wave. They’re working really hard, and it’s nice to give out small gestures of kindness and acknowledgement.

Don’t use cash

When you place your order online, you will have to use a debit or credit card. You should use the same if you are picking up the order yourself. Using a debit or credit card reduces the amount of contact you have with others.

Place the delivery order on a surface that is easy to clean

Once you have your food order, make sure you place it in your sink or on a clean, uncluttered counter that will be easy to wipe down with cleaning solutions/disinfectant.

Put any disposable containers directly in your garbage or recycling.

Wash your hands after unpacking the food and before you eat

Washing your hands frequently is the best way to ensure a safe, clean eating experience. You should wash your hands before you get the food and immediately after you unpack it/before you start eating.

When washing your hands, you should do so for approximately one minute using warm water and soap. You can find more instructions and an infographic on the Government of Canada’s website.

Additional information

How to have a COVID-19 safe holiday season

The holidays are here, and many of us are not able to celebrate the way we usually would. That’s okay! There are plenty of ways to celebrate safely during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Keep 6 feet apart

Physical distancing is one of the most important steps to take when seeing other people. This means that if you want to see family or friends, you should stand at least 6 feet apart. It is also recommended that any meetings are done outside or through doors/windows as an additional safety measure.

Wear a mask

Masks need to be worn in public spaces, and at any gatherings, particularly if you can’t keep at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and other people.

There are plenty of mask types that you can use. To make sure the mask is effective, it should completely cover your nose and mouth without leaving any gaps below your chin or at your cheeks.

Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer

Washing your hands for at least a couple minutes with warm water and soap is the best way to maintain cleanliness. In between handwashes, use a hand sanitizer designed to fight germs and bacteria. This is especially important if you go to any public places.

Exchange gifts through the mail or through porch drop offs

Everyone loves giving and receiving gifts over the holidays, but COVID-19 makes it difficult to do a traditional gift exchange. Instead, arrange to drop off or receive gifts using your front door/porch.

You can also mail your gifts through the post office or other shipping service if you normally exchange gifts with people who live far away.

Speak with family and friends virtually

Using a phone, video chat program, or texting/instant messaging is a great way to stay connected to loved ones even if you can’t see them in person.

How to talk to someone who wants to celebrate in person

This is certainly a tricky conversation to have with loved ones. Some people may want to celebrate the holidays with family gatherings as they usually do, or may not take the same safety precautions as you.

Your safety and the safety of your loved ones is incredibly important, and you don’t want to do anything that would put anyone at risk of getting sick, particularly around the holidays. If a family member asks you to hug, visit them in person, or anything else you’re not comfortable with, communicate with them as politely as possible. Some examples of things to say include:

“I’m following the recommendations of my local health authority and will only be in contact with my household. How about we have a virtual call?”

“For my own health and wellbeing, I won’t be coming over for the holidays this year. I love and miss you very much. Why don’t we plan some virtual activities together?”

“I want to be as safe as possible, especially since I’m [or someone in your household] is at a higher risk for catching COVID-19. Let’s exchange gifts using the porch drop-off system, and have a short physically distanced visit?”

Your family and friends will understand, and many of them will feel the same way as you.

Tips to increase your holiday spirit

Decorate your home

Changing up your environment can make you feel refreshed and happy. Decorating for the holidays can have the same effect. There’s no specific time limit on holiday decorations either – you can put them up as early as you want and keep them up as long as you want.

Family ugly Christmas sweater contest

Does your family like a little competition? You can make it festive by having an ugly Christmas sweater contest. The more out there the sweater, the more fun it is!

You can even take it up a notch by challenging everyone to decorate the sweaters themselves. Top it off with a virtual fashion show and awards for ‘Most Creative’, ‘Ugliest Sweater’ or ‘Most Festive.’

Have a virtual caroling party

Carols and holiday songs are all around us, and it’s always more fun to sing them together. By hosting a virtual sing-a-long with family and friends, you can share your favourite tunes, cheer each other on, and have a lovely winter evening making memories.

Host a virtual holiday dinner

Just because you can’t all be at the same table doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a meal together. Using a video app like Zoom or FaceTime, you can set up your laptop and have a lovely holiday meal with good conversation with the ones you love. You can each make the same dish, set your own menu, or have dessert first – you make the rules!

Learn more about the holiday you celebrate

Depending on your religion or the holidays you choose to celebrate, there may be different meanings behind them. Now is a great opportunity to learn more about the holiday you celebrate, how it came to be, and why. For example, if you celebrate Christmas and Santa Claus is a part of your holiday, do you know where Santa comes from?

Look for virtual events for your religion

If you are part of a religion, you may not be able to gather in a traditional way. However, there may be virtual events/gatherings you can be a part of without having to leave your home. You can reach out to your church/place of religion or do some searching online.

Make homemade crafts & decorations

If you want more decorations, you can also try making some! Crafting is a great activity, and it can be incredibly relaxing.

Make some favourite treats

Holidays are a great time to whip up your favourite sweet or salty treat. Bake cookies, try homemade chocolates, or make a snack mix. There are no limits, and you deserve a treat for yourself.

Share a holiday beverage over a video call

There are plenty of holiday-themed beverage recipes on the Internet. From fancy hot chocolates and coffees to bright cocktails/mocktails, there’s something for everyone. When you set up calls with your family and friends, why not suggest everyone try a new holiday beverage? You can compare recipes and enjoy a holiday ‘cheers’.

See what programs local brain injury associations are offering

Your local brain injury association may be offering programs during the holidays that you can take part in.

Talk with family and friends

The holidays are often spent with family and friends. COVID-19 has changed how we will celebrate, but it doesn’t change that. Schedule times to talk to family and friends, and make sure that you tell them what you need from them when it comes to communication.

Virtual family story time

Story time doesn’t just have to be for kids. Adults like listening to stories too. The holidays are a perfect time to host a virtual story time. Designate one person to be the reader. If you want to add more to the story, other participants can help with sound affects or voice different characters. You can even have participants dress up and make it more of a play! The beautiful thing about telling a story is that you can tell it any way you want.

Watch a movie together

Holiday movies are a staple tradition for many individuals. If you have a computer with an Internet connection and a streaming service such as Netflix, you can still take part in your movie-watching tradition with applications such as Metastream. Here is an article that details some of the available ways to watch movies at the same time with your friends.

If you want to go a little more low-tech, you could agree to all start playing the movie at the same time, and send each other virtual chats at the same time.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, there are plenty of ways to have some festive and safe holiday season.

A guide for mental health during COVID-19

This is a stressful time and it’s natural to feel anxious about COVID-19. Worries about the virus, physical distancing and increased isolation from others can all contribute to deteriorating mental health.

While we may feel stressed, it’s important that we all do what we can to create a positive frame of mind and take care of our mental health and well-being – and remember to pay attention to the mental health and well-being of others. For many people living with acquired brain injury, isolation is an everyday challenge. It’s stressful and lonely. With more and more accessible and virtual options being developed during the pandemic, survivors now have more options for connections. It’s important to remember this when physical/social distancing measures are lifted.

To support mental health and well-being, we’ve created this guide to help.

Tips to take care of your mental health

1. Take breaks from news and social media

It’s important to be aware of COVID-19, how to protect yourself, and any updates in your area. But the constant stream of news and social media posts can be overwhelming. If necessary, you can unfollow news social media accounts and take breaks from scrolling.

If you want to fill your newsfeed with something a little more cheerful, The Happy Broadcast focuses on positive news around the world, including updates about COVID-19.

2. Get your facts about COVID-19 from the right sources

When you do want more information about COVID-19, it’s important to get it from reliable sources. Sources include:

For some basic information about COVID-19, check out our article on social (physical) distancing, isolation, and quarantine.

3. Meditate

It might seem like a cliché, but deep breathing and meditation can be an excellent way to clear your mind, take up some time, and improve your mood. We suggest trying guided meditations – these give you something to focus on and walk you through each step.

LoveYourBrain offers guided meditations of different lengths.

4. Create a structure for your day

When you spend the majority of your day at home, it’s easy to stop keeping some sort of schedule. Creating a structure to your day will help both your to-do list and your mental health. Break big tasks up into smaller ones, and write down what you’re going to do each day.

To help you create a daily schedule, we’ve created this downloadable daily planner.

5. Exercise and get outdoors

We feel good when we are active and get fresh air. As long as you stay 6 feet away from people who don’t live in your household, you can go on as many walks as you want. Walking is a great form of exercise and a great way to clear your mind and focus on positive feelings. You can make it even more entertaining by listening to music, an audio book or a podcast while you do it.

If you want a bit more of a workout, YouTube has several videos you can use as a guide. If you’re working with a physical therapist, you can do the exercises you have learned from them as well.

6. Eat a healthy diet

As tempting as it is to dive into junk food, we feel better when we eat well. One of the ways you can plan out a healthy diet and stick to it is by creating a meal plan. A meal plan will not only take the guesswork out of what you’re making for dinner, but it will help you create a grocery list. A grocery list is a must-have when practicing physical distancing, as it can eliminate multiple trips. Meal planning is also a great way to practice your organization skills.

To help you create a meal plan, we’ve created this handy downloadable template with room for a week’s worth of meals. You can print it and put it on your fridge.

7. Limit caffeine and alcohol

Caffeine can make it difficult for you to fall asleep and lead to increased feelings of restlessness and anxiety.

Alcohol can also cause problems with sleep. It’s also not a healthy or effective coping method for stress – it can actually make symptoms associated with your mental health worse (Source: Alberta Health Services).

8. Do things that make you happy

Physical distancing means we’re spending a lot of time alone or with the other members of our households. This can lead to bouts of boredom and inactivity, which can contribute to feelings of melancholy and depression. It’s easy during this time to feel guilty about not being productive, especially if you’re comparing your experience at home to other people. But you don’t have to be productive during quarantine – you should instead focus on doing what you enjoy.

We’ve created a list of 30 things that can keep you and your family entertained.

9. Connect socially

Public health officials are recommending that instead of calling staying home social distancing, we call it physical distancing. That’s because while we need to stay physically apart, we shouldn’t stop being social with each other. We just have to come up with alternatives. Video chats, phone calls, texting and email are all great ways to stay socially connected while staying safe.

Many local brain injury associations are now offering services online. They may not be exactly the same as in-person services, but they are a great way to stay connected and stay informed.

10. Let yourself feel disappointed or frustrated – but don’t dwell on those feelings

This is a trying time – trips and outings will be cancelled, events will be missed, and a lot of services are closed. As important as these measures are for public health and safety, it’s disappointing and frustrating.

Let yourself feel frustrated and disappointed, but try to process those feelings as constructively as possible. Acknowledge you’re frustrated, but then also think about how you are going to move on and what positive steps you’ll take.

This is also great to do if you’re trying to speak with kids about COVID-19 as well. They will take their lead from you, and if you talk about your feelings and positive coping strategies, the kids will attempt to do the same.

Tips to support others during quarantine

Even though we have to stay 6 feet apart, there are still ways we can support others during this difficult time.

1. Make donations

Local food banks and other organizations are struggling to keep up with the demand as people become more and more dependent on their services. This is incredibly stressful for both workers and community members who need access to food and other services. If you are able to, a monetary donation can help support the community.

2. Support local business

Many local restaurants, shops, and services have had to close because of COVID-19. While this is important for public safety, it’s incredibly hard for the business owners who have lost their source of income.

If you are able to, try and support these local businesses during physical distancing. For example, some places are still selling gift cards and some restaurants are offering food delivery. Your support will make them feel appreciated and help them as they cope with this stressful time.

3. Reach out to people

Many of us are lucky enough to have family and friends we can speak with in person or virtually. Not everyone has someone they are closely connected to, and that can be hard when you spend long periods of time alone.

Take some time and reach out to people you know but maybe don’t talk to very often. Or post in a community group on platforms like Facebook that you’re here to talk if anyone needs it. Seeing those messages and knowing people are there to support them can really help people who are struggling right now.

4. Offer an ear – and some resources

If someone does need to talk about how they’re feeling, why not offer them an ear? It’s a great way to help someone out, and it helps you stay connected with others. However, it’s important to talk about how you feel is well: for example, if you don’t feel able to talk about COVID-19 right now or don’t want to engage in negative conversations, make sure you share that with the person. You need to take care of your own mental health as well.

If the person is open to it, offer them some resources with more information that could help them.

Resources on mental health and COVID-19

Please note: we cannot guarantee the accessibility of the sites to which we link.

Weekly challenges during physical distancing

We’re all doing our part by practicing physical distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. But that doesn’t mean we can’t stay connected. Brain Injury Canada has created a list of weekly challenges to inspire some fun at home. You can do these challenges in order along with us, or you can pick and choose which ones you like. We’re encouraging everyone to be #TogetherApart by sharing the results of your challenge on social media. Don’t forget to also use the hashtag #BICChallenge and tag us!

1.Try a new recipe

We all have our favourite recipes, but now is the perfect time to experiment to try a new recipe. It can be simple, complex, sweet, or savoury, but it should be something you’ve never made before. If you’re with family, ask them to participate. Make sure to pick the recipe you want to try before you create your shopping list so you’ll have all of your ingredients. Resources to find a new recipe:

2. Exercise each day

This doesn’t mean you have to work up a sweat – it just means get your body moving in some way. Examples of exercises include:

  • Walking
  • Yoga
  • An at-home workout video
  • Dancing
  • Stretching

Aim for 20-30 minutes a day of moving each day of the week.

3. Take a photo a day

Most of us have phones with cameras. Now is the time to take advantage of them by finding and photographing interesting things in our homes and outside. Photographs are a great way to preserve and share memories. If you don’t have a camera, you can create a word picture: write down or type a description of the object or scene you would like to photograph. Editing photographs can also be incredibly fun. If you want to add a professional touch to your snapshots, check out these free video editing applications that allow you to edit right on your phone. If you prefer to edit on a computer, there are also free online editing platforms. If you want to take it to the next level, there is an application for smartphones called 1 second everyday. You record a 1 second video each day, and your app turns them into a movie. It’s a fantastic way to keep a quick daily diary, and fun to look at later on.

4. Listen to one new musical artist a day

Music is a wonderful thing, and there are so many artists out there to discover. Now is the perfect time to try and find new musicians. You could even discover a brand new genre you’ve never tried before. There are several places you can discover new music.

Please note: some of these players have free and paid versions with different features. If you really aren’t sure where to start, try Gnoosic. Gnoosic is an online search tool specifically for music. It asks you to name some of your favourite bands/musicians, and gives you a recommendation. You can then select whether you like it, don’t like it, or if you aren’t sure. It then gives you another suggestion. Don’t worry, it doesn’t ask for any personal information. Many musical artists are now offering free online concerts through their social media pages. Billboard.com has posted a schedule, which they update regularly. Not only can you find new artists to listen to, but you can check out a concert from the comfort of your own home – and at the volume you want.

5. Learn one new skill

When you’ve got some extra time, you can try learning a brand new skill. This could be anything!

  • Knitting
  • Learning a language
  • Pet tricks
  • DIY home repairs that are safe to do
  • How to play a new game
  • How to draw or paint
  • Play an instrument
  • Make decorations and other crafts
  • Creating a budget

There are videos and how-to articles for a lot of skills out there (try YouTube), and you can take as much time as you need to practice.

6. Drink the recommended amount of water each day

This one seems simple – but most of us don’t get the recommended amount of water each day. It’s important to drink plenty of water for our overall health and happiness. We’ve all heard the ‘8 cups a day’ rule. While that is a generally good rule to follow, factors such as exercise, the outside environment, and your overall health. Medical experts say that a good way to get the right amount of water is to drink a glass with each meal and between each meal. You should also drink before, during and after exercise and if you feel hungry/thirsty. If you have trouble remembering to drink water, there are a few smartphone apps that can help remind you.

7. Do one nice thing for yourself a day

It’s nice to be productive while practicing physical distancing, but it’s more important to feel good. Sometimes that means not being productive, but doing something nice for yourself instead. Self-care is something we should all be doing, and now is a great opportunity to explore new ways to make yourself happy. Some self-care ideas include:

  • Having a bath
  • Treating yourself to a favourite snack
  • Having a nice nap
  • Do some organization
  • Watch your favourite movie
  • Read a good book

If it’s something you enjoy doing, it counts as a self-care activity. So let your imagination run wild!

8. Support a local business or charity

Many local businesses and charities are struggling right now. They have either had to close down, or have moved their business online either through a website or social media. There are many ways you can support a local business or charity

  • Order a meal to be delivered
  • Purchase a product or gift card
  • Make a donation
  • Share their social media posts on your own pages with friends and families

By looking for local places to support, you might even find something brand new!

9. Send a letter/email to someone you love

Some of us are at home with family or roommates. But many people are home alone – this can be incredibly lonely. For this challenge, write a letter or an email to someone you know. Try to focus on people who would appreciate hearing from a friend, especially if they live on their own.

10. Make a time capsule

Time capsules aren’t just for grade school projects – it’s also great for adults. A time capsule is a container you fill with meaningful items, seal up, and put away until a future date. There are many options for things you can put in a time capsule. It can be treasured items, magazine/newspaper clippings, notes to your future self, photographs, or little crafts. Here’s a great guide on making a time capsule.

11. Write yourself a letter

You don’t have to make a time capsule to write yourself a letter. Futureme.org is a website that allows you to write to your future self and select when you want to receive it. It will then send you an email with that letter when the time comes. Many people who have used the free service say they completely forgot about their letters until they found them in their email – and they were touched by the things their past selves said. If you would prefer to keep your letter handwritten, seal it up in an envelope and write your name and the date you want to open it on the outside. Then have it put in a place where you won’t lose it.

12. Read a book

With the amount of digital entertainment available, many of us don’t get to read as much as we’d like. This challenge is simple – start (and if possible, finish) a book you have wanted to read. If you don’t have any books in your home, check to see if your local or provincial library system has digital services. You can also give audiobooks a try. Audible is run by Amazon, and you can sign up and get one free book. It does have a monthly cost after a free trial, so make sure to thoroughly read all the sign up rules. You can also purchase audiobooks from Indigo.

More challenges you can try yourself

30 ideas to entertain yourself during social distancing

Social distancing is incredibly important as Canadians try to limit the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. But that does mean we’ll all be spending a lot of time at home. It’s easy to get bored and feel lonely. To combat boredom and keep yourself entertained and happy, check out this list of ideas and activities

Remember: you should do whatever makes you feel happy. Don’t forget to take breaks when you need to. And if you have family or friends with you, ask them to participate!

Feel-good activities

1. Go for a walk

Walking is completely fine during social distancing – just remember to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others.

2. Write letters

Not many people take the time to write letters anymore – but everyone loves receiving them. If you want to work on your fine motor skills or just do something a little old-fashioned, letter writing is a great activity. In order to make sure we all do our part to keep everyone safe and healthy, you should only send letters if you’re not showing any symptoms. It is possible for COVID-19 to live on paper for a period of time. Alternatively, you could write your letters and send them at a later date. Please note: Canada Post is providing updates on their response to COVID-19.

3. Exercise

People feel better when they get some physical activity in – even if it’s just a light walk. If you want more of a workout, there are plenty of online videos and apps that offer free workouts.

4. Yoga at home

If you have a small stretch of floor, you can do a little yoga. Yoga is an excellent way to relax and gently move your body. Love Your Brain has several videos specifically for people living with acquired brain injury.

5. Meditate

Meditation is a lovely calming practice that works to clear your mind and help ease negative feelings. Love Your Brain has some guided meditations you can do.

6. Spring cleaning

There’s something satisfying about spring cleaning – many people use it as an opportunity to purge unused items and rearrange their home to create a fresh new space. Just make sure to take breaks and ask for help when you need it.

Entertainment

There are tons of ways to stay entertained thanks to digital media, games, and crafts.

7. Streaming services

There are tons of streaming services out there that can give you access to hundreds of movies, television shows and documentaries. All you need is an internet connection and an account. Prices for streaming services range, but many have free trial periods so you can test them out first. Some streaming services available in Canada include:

  • CBC Gem (psst! This one is free)
  • Netflix
  • Amazon Prime
  • Crave
  • Disney+
  • AppleTV+

The great thing about streaming is you can pause whenever you want. You also don’t necessarily need a television – just a computer with Internet access.

8. Play board or card games

Board games and card games are a great way to pass the time, and can be incredibly helpful with memory as well.

9. Make your own board game

Have you mastered all your board games? It’s time to take it to the next level and make your own. This is a great craft idea you can spread out over the coming days and is a great group activity if you’re home with other people. Instructions on how to make a board game.

10. Complete some puzzles

Puzzles are interesting, take lots of time, and great for all ages! You can even do them online if you don’t have any in your house.

11. Check out library books online

Many libraries in Canada have online services where you can check out electronic books and audiobooks. Your local library will have information on available services.

12. Read from your own shelf

If you have a couple books you’ve been wanting to get to, now is the perfect time!

13. Video message your friends and family

Video messaging is a great way to stay connected to family and friends while respecting the social distancing rules. Here are some free video chat apps you can use.

14. Listen to music

Not many of us take the time to sit quietly and listen to music we enjoy. Now is the perfect time to do just that.

15. Listen to podcasts

Podcasts are a great alternative to television or reading. They’re easy to download and there are so many different podcasts from which to choose. There’s something for everyone!

16. Follow some YouTube tutorials for crafts

Painting, knitting, crocheting, sewing – there are so many crafts and skills you can learn. Being creative is a great way to boost your mood, and it can be incredibly relaxing as well.

17. Colour a masterpiece

Colouring is incredibly therapeutic and relaxing – and what better way to spend your time than colouring some works of art? Some museums and libraries have made colouring books that are free to download. You can find them here.

Education resources

18. Try a free online university course

Universities in Canada and the United States sometimes offer Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). These either have a dedicated start date or you can take them at your own pace. Courses often take a few weeks to complete, but only require a couple hours a week. This is ideal if you want to explore a subject that interests you. Coursera.org hosts many of these online courses. For free courses offered by Canadian universities, check out this list. If you want to explore courses offered by Ivy League universities (U.S.A.), visit this link. Tip: If you need to take a course at your own speed, look for courses that are self-paced.

19. Learn a new skill

What’s great about YouTube is that you can pause a video whenever you need to take a break and learn at your own pace! If there’s something you want to learn, chances are you can find it there.

20. Spend a few minutes a day learning a language

Duolingo is a free service designed to teach languages with quick daily lessons. You can choose from all kinds of languages and have some fun trying something new.

Virtual tours

Take some of the world’s coolest tours – all from the comfort of your own home.

21. Museum tours around the world

Visit international museums and take in some of the world’s most celebrated art.

Google Arts and Culture has plenty more virtual tours of museums and historical sites. You can relax and take your time exploring the sites.

22. Check out Mars

You can go to a whole other planet! Explore the surface of Mars with this digital 360° camera.

Animal fun

Thanks to live webcams and videos, it’s possible to see some pretty incredible animals we wouldn’t normally get to see.

23. Explore all kinds of animal life

Explore.org has hundreds of live cams that let you check out all kinds of animals – including puppies!

24. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium has 4 live cams featuring some of their cutest critters. You can find them here.

25. Beluga whales

There’s a beluga whale webcam set up at the Georgia Aquarium – and they know how to work the camera! The Georgia Aquarium also has more live cams you can check out.

26. Watch the Monterey Bay Aquarium live cams

Monterey Bay Aquarium has multiple live cams that explore all kinds of marine life – including sea otters!

27. Africam

Africam offers people a live safari from the comfort of their own home. Find their cams here.

Cooking activities

28. Have an indoor picnic

This is great for kids (or kids at heart). Find a space in your home to spread out a blanket and have your lunch or dinner picnic-style!

29. Pizza night

Homemade pizza night is fun for everyone. You can use premade dough and everyone can add their own toppings. It’s a fun, collaborative way to make dinner – and a great introduction to cooking for people who are just learning.

30. Check out some cooking tutorials

If you have some time on your hands, try out some new recipes or cooking tutorials, or practice your prep skills.

Stay safe and do things that make you happy

It’s normal to feel anxious about what’s going on – but you’re doing your part by respecting social distancing. It’s challenging, but these activities – and other things that make you happy – will keep you and your loved ones entertained and engaged.