Since Governor Inslee’s last announcement to close schools through the year, and extending the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, it has become more and more apparent we are in this for the long haul.  To help make the most of being #alonetogether, the HR Team thought we’d share some fun and creative ideas to stay connected while keeping the correct social distance order in place.

Bring Back Pen Pals

Did you ever have a pen pal in elementary school? Someone you never met, but would write to weekly, asking questions and eagerly awaiting their response?  Same idea, except, you already know the person.  This can be done by mail or electronically with email.

Rachael Lafferty’s 4 year old daughter has been practicing writing (and mostly dictating to mommy) weekly letters to her cousins and family friends across the state. Sometimes she draws them a picture, sometimes she put stickers in the envelope, or asks them to perform a silly dance or trick and send her a picture (usually by text).  This has been a great way to keep in contact, but also gives her something to look forward to.  She loves getting the letters back.

Engage Your Workout Buddies Online

Most gyms and workout programs have been offering their participants way to continue with group workout or individual coaching online.  Not a member of a gym? Some are offering free trials during COVID, but you can also find hundreds of free kid and adult friendly workouts on YouTube.

“I’m big on workout classes and connecting with others, so I’ve been doing Barre3 Livestream classes over Zoom where I get to connect with the instructor and other class participants!” – Chelsea Jacobson

Virtual Togetherness

Missing Happy Hours? Coffee dates? Birthday parties? Just general family time?  Try doing them online!  Many platforms like Zoom, Skype, and Google Hangouts allow for multiple participants to join and can help you relieve stress by visiting face to face, laughing at Uncle Joe’s technology short falls, or bonding over your kids/pets constantly interrupting you!  Rachael Lafferty held a virtual birthday party with family for her son’s 2nd birthday last weekend, in which grandparents, aunts, uncles and even great grandparents were able to visit together.  Marnie Allen organized a virtual family reunion across three states.  Melissa Kreuder has been having virtual “Happy Hours” with her family and friends in California.  (Note: Please remember to use your personal devices and accounts and not your ESD work devices and accounts. For more guidance on using ESD technology appropriately see Board Policy 2022 Electronic Resources and Internet Safety)

Take Game Night Virtual

Joseph Mathew’s recently held a virtual LAN party with his friends. He and Alissa Jolly have also been playing Jackbox games virtually with their friends.  Jackbox.com provides you with virtual game packs that can be hosted over Zoom, and played by several participants using their smart devices.  They have tutorials on how to host COVID safe gaming parties, as well as FREE games for a limited time.

Rachael Lafferty and her husband have found ways to play strategy board/card games (like Disney’s Villainous, 7 wonders, and Magic) with friends who have the same game on Google Hangouts.  Lots of other party games (Charades, Pictionary, Bingo) can be done virtually as well.  Check out this article for more ideas: 6 Ways to Play Games via Video Chat Since Just Talking Is Getting Old

We hope you are all staying safe and healthy, and finding ways to still stay connected at home!  Feel free to share how you are creatively social distancing in the comments!