15 Fun Skills to Learn Online Together, as a Family

Although the coronavirus pandemic has caused much pain, stress, grief and heartache, a bright side for some has been that the mandatory quarantine afforded us more quality time together, as a family. Five months later, however, with all Netflix movies and DVR recordings viewed twice, let’s put our extra time together to good use. The board games are now boring, and the kids are showing signs of unrest or are playing too many video games, for lack of anything else to do. So, how can you resolve that?

Looking for more fun things to do with the family?

How about something productive, yet fun, like learning a new skill you are curious about? There are so many great ways you can learn from the comfort of your own home, so, why not make it a family activity? Decide on a new skill everyone wants to learn together and then make it entertaining. Motivate each other to succeed and celebrate all milestones and accomplishments together.

Here are some skills to learn together and links to online instruction for them.

Learn how to make delectable treats together. Work as a team to create your edible masterpieces or divide into teams for competition. Either way, at the end of each lesson, you will have delicious meals or desserts at the ready.

Baking and Learning

CocuSocial – live and interactive virtual classes
Haven’s Kitchen – Private virtual classes with Group ones in September
Raddish Kids – a subscription cooking club with kits delivered to your home

Chess

There’s nothing better than having fun while unknowingly learning problem-solving, strategy, and concentration skills. This is what you’ll get by using both the analytical and creative sides of your brain, while you play.

Chess.com – online lessons and videos with game analysis
Learning Chess.net – interactive way to learn chess with home study options
Outschool – classes for kids

Crochet

Make hats, rugs, potholders and so much more while learning a creative and useful craft. This is a relaxing skill which will improve dexterity and innovation.

Joann Fabric – online classes through CreativeBug & their YouTube channel
Skillshare – a variety of videos & classes according to the item you want to make
Spruce Crafts – virtual lessons and videos

These skills, rarely taught at school, are most vital for a successful future. Now is surely the perfect opportunity to take time ensuring your kids and family are financially savvy. Many lessons often include games and pretend investing where you can compare and discuss your choices together as a family.

Finance and Investment

Finance and Investing

InCharge.org – at-home lesson plans about money
Outschool.com – many financial class options for kids & families, varying topics
Young Ameritowne – fun way to learn business, finance & entrepreneurship

Gardening

Spend time outside with the family learning about soil, plants, and growing food. This is a great way to teach kids traditional gardening, hydroponics, permaculture and more.

Garden Tutor – classes and kits
Skillshare – varying videos about specific gardening topics
Udemy – video lessons and courses per gardening topics

Knitting

Get ready for your winter needs by learning how to make your own scarves, hats, mitts, sweaters and more. A fun, hands-on, creative way to physically make products and gifts. You can even work on a huge project together like a blanket.

All Free Knitting – online lessons and tutorials
Great Courses – Knitting 101 – learn at your own pace
Joann Fabric – online classes through CreativeBug & their YouTube channel

Languages

What a gift to be bi-lingual or tri-lingual! The knowledge of another language allows you to speak with even more people from all over the world. Learn a new language and practice together.

Babbel – lessons and scenarios
Duolingo – free instruction through lessons and rewards
Pimsleur – lessons, videos, and games

Painting and Drawing

Looking to fine-tune or develop your family’s artistic flair, or perhaps you want to create a masterpiece mural, all together, for the living room. You’re in luck! There are many online classes that can help you.

Lunch Doodles – free cartoon drawing lessons
Skillshare – a vast array of classes
Sparketh – in depth art classes with unlimited access to over 1000 video lessons

Photo and Videography

Want to take better family pictures and videos for prosperity? Then take one of these courses to get you started.

Creativelive – recorded and live classes on photography and videography
Kids Photography Academy – designed for kids with challenges & stories
School of Photography – complete courses in photo taking & editing

Playing an Instrument

Does your family love music? Do you want to start a family band? Then, enjoy one of these online courses for your musical enjoyment.

Orpheus Academy – piano, guitar, voice & violin (virtual individual & group)
Outschool – separate classes for all instruments and signing
School of Rock – guitar, bass, keyboard, drums and singing

Repairs and Construction

Have you always wanted to build your own bookshelf or storage box, or perhaps you have something laying around the house that’s been in need of fixing for the last few months? Well, here’s your opportunity to do that together.

Home Depot – project ideas for kids with video instruction
My DIY University – various video workshops & quick classes for home repair
YouTube – search by project topic to find hundreds of video instruction options

Sewing

Is there interest in making your own clothes or perhaps hemming new curtains or creating your own quilt? You might need help from the following websites.

Outschool – kids project-based video lessons
Ronkita – interactive, online lessons
Udemy – a variety of project-based video lessons

Typing

Typing quickly and accurately is a most useful ability for all careers. Polish off your skills while the kids properly learn to type with these programs.

Type Kids – 30 online lessons with games and rewards
Typing.com – comprehensive typing course
Typing Club – free complete course with games, rewards & performance tracking

Yoga and Dance

Feeling the need to move that body a little after sitting down for hours working or studying? Why not try yoga or dance together?

Broadway Dance Center – Professional NYC studio with all styles offered online
CLI Studios – classes in all dance styles from some of the industry best
Steps on Broadway – virtual classes and masterclasses

So many, typically in-person, classes and activities have now found a way to offer their instruction online. Explore your passions and have fun learning new skills together. Also, feel free to share your favorite family classes, activities, and learning experience with us anytime.