Creative Ways to Conquer Boredom

Friends and Artists,
Overcoming boredom while social distancing can be challenging. Boredom can be a signal that you're not feeling meaningfully engaged with the world, which can lead to a lack of motivation and drive. Fortunately, there are several ways to spice up a dull situation — Just because you're bored at home doesn't mean you can't relax and laugh a little! Channeling your creativity will bring novelty and productivity back in to everyday life. Here are a few creative ways to cope with boredom in a time of social distancing.
Socialize. Even in the age of social distancing, we can use technology to connect with others. Call up a friend or schedule a group video chat. Whether in person or virtually, there are plenty of online games and trivia apps that allow you to interact while practicing safe social distancing.
Read a book, or listen to an audiobook. An author's words can give you that much-needed mental vacation. Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries now has curbside pickup available. Also check out this week's top pics below to explore Audible's free collection of audiobooks!
Doodle, paint, or sketch something. Research suggests that these are all great ways to keep your mind focused and listening by engaging your right brain. This is a great way to exercise a new skill while passing the time.
Do some creative writing. The best part is, you don't even have to be a master writer to accomplish this. A little creative writing — such as poetry, short stories, letters, a journal entry, or starting a blog — can be personally challenging and enable self-expression.
Make gifts for friends or family members. If there's a holiday, graduation, or birthday coming up, you can make something meaningful for a loved one. It can be as simple as a clay flower pot, a handmade card, a knitted or crocheted gift, or a personalized scrapbook album!
Devoting yourself to any of these activities will give you the promise of productive, fulfilling hours to come — All while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe and healthy! In the coming weeks, we will continue to be a source of hope, inspiration, and moral support. For more information about our mission, visit our website, or contact us at [hidden email]. Have an exciting week!
Sincerely,
The SWCA Team
And Now For This Week’s Top Picks…

ARTS | Calling Art of the Quarantine
Art at the Cave is looking for submissions for "Art of the Quarantine." The call for art created during the quarantine is non-juried and open to artists of all ages — kids too! Art does not need to have a covid-related theme. Initial deadline is July 31st, with an expectation that this may be extended depending on the circumstances.

MUSIC | Remote Learning at RPA
Riverside Performing Arts has resumed its normal schedule via Zoom and is now offering a variety of online interactive classes including Musical Theater, Broadway, Jazz and Contemporary. Explore dance, music, and theater offerings, all available online!

THEATRE | Larp Wizarding School
Sign up now to receive your acceptance letter to wizarding school. Study potions, charms, care of magical creatures, transfiguration, defense against the dark arts, divination and more! All students can expect a completely new experience every year!

DANCE | On-Demand Summer Camps
Columbia Dance is excited to announce its ON-DAMAND summer camps for kids ages 3-7! You pick the days, times, and up to five of your favorite kids to join our Superhero Training Camp in a safe, active, and fun-filled environment. We will adventure together with dance and exercise, learning how to be the best superheroes we can be!

GOOD READS | Free Audiobooks for Kids
Stories help. They entertain, they teach; They keep young minds active, alert, and engaged. For as long as schools are closed, Audible is releasing an incredible collection of stories, including titles across six different languages. All stories are free to stream on your desktop, laptop, phone of tablet.

SUMMER | Camp Activities
Vancouver Parks and Recreation is providing fun and safe summer experiences at their day camps! Campers ages 6-11 can register for camp sessions at Firstenburg and Marshall Community Centers. Upcoming themes include Sports, Space, and Dinosaurs!