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For many of us, Easter is a time for celebrating, whether that’s getting together with friends to enjoy the bank holiday or treating the kids over the Easter break. But this year things are very different as the nation continues to adapt to home life.
There’s no doubt that feeling connected during disconnected times is a struggle. That’s why it’s important to think about the now and how we can create a positive environment for ourselves and still enjoy making memories. Here’s seven ways you can stay connected with family, friends and other communities over the Easter period from your own home.
- Get some video calls in the diary
Staring at an empty diary that would otherwise be full of bank holiday plans can seem disheartening, that doesn’t mean you can’t catch up with the people you love. Whether you just want a cuppa and a catch up for an hour or a virtual party, there are plenty of apps and websites you can use to keep everyone connected. Popular choices are FaceTime, Skype and Zoom, but why not give the latest app HouseParty a go? With a selection of games from trivia to Pictionary, you can make a real event out of a night in. And what’s better, you don’t even have to get out of your pyjamas!
- Bring the pub quiz to you
Nothing brings out fun and team spirit like a good old-fashioned quiz night - great for family and friends of all ages. If you’re hosting a family quiz night, why not create questions about each family member for others to answer, or if general knowledge is more your thing, there are plenty of ready-made quizzes online for you to check out.
You could turn it into a regular event and get everyone together on a weekend for a different theme or topic, so everyone gets a go at playing quiz master.
- Plan a movie night
Getting together to watch a film with a bowl full of snacks is one of life’s simple pleasures. And although you might not be able to huddle under a blanket on the sofa or watch a movie on the big screen, thanks to the joy of Netflix Party you can still watch a movie at the same time. With built-in chat functions and access to all your favourite Netflix shows, you can enjoy distance movie nights with your family and friends.
- Organise an Easter egg hunt
With Easter just around the corner and the excitement of the kids’ anticipation over a visit from the Easter bunny chiming through the house, why not get creative and organise an Easter egg hunt. Not only will this keep the kids entertained for a while, it will also give you some peace and quiet to enjoy your chocolate egg fix!
- Bring out classic board games
If you’re lucky enough to be in isolation with your family, partner or house mate, turn off the technology for the night and dust off those classic board games. Get stuck into a good game of Monopoly or Cluedo, or for the more advanced board gamers amongst us, challenge your household to a game of Chess – if you don’t know how to play, maybe that could be a new skill to take up! Let’s face it, board games create those nostalgic memories that last forever.
- Become part of an online community
Use this time to find opportunities you never normally would, such as becoming part of an online community in an area you’re passionate about – this could be anything from an online book club, to a cooking class. Setting up a WhatsApp group to discuss and analyse a weekly book couldn’t be easier. Not only could this help you to learn a new skill or rekindle your love for an old hobby, you’ll also make new friends. After all we’re all in this together and everyone is looking for new ways to fill their time and stay connected.
- Get your game face on
During these isolated times, many people are turning to the virtual world of video gaming with a recent report stating that web traffic relating to video game usage was up 75% during peak hours, and an increase of 12% for video streaming*. As online gaming can support large-scale online interaction and socialisation, why not get competitive and find a game that you enjoy playing with family and friends.
Just a couple of things to remember during these uncertain times – although isolation is something we’ve all had to adapt to, it’s important to remember you’re not alone. This situation is temporary, and if we all do our bit and adhere to government guidelines, we’ll be on the other side stronger and more united than ever. Stay connected, stay positive and enjoy your virtual Easter holiday!
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