Let’s face it . . . we are all extremely bored right now.

It is 2020, also known as the year of quarantine. The US and many other countries all over the world are currently in some form of quarantine since there is a worldwide coronavirus pandemic going on.

Here in Beaver County, nonessential businesses are closed indefinitely, and all schools are closed for the rest of the year—which means most teenagers are at home with no school, no extracurricular activities, no friends, and no jobs. With that being said, this situation allows for a lot of extra free time and a lot of boredom.

But don’t fret, here are some fun ideas to get you through quarantine.

Idea number one is to work on arts and crafts. Now is a great time to get your creative juices flowing and possibly let out some emotions. You can paint. You can draw. You can tie dye clothing. You can make jewelry for your friends and family. Basically do whatever fulfills your artistic wants and needs.

Idea number two is to play games or do puzzles. If you are quarantined with siblings or just your parents, you could have fun playing board games or card games together. If you’re alone most of the day, you could pass the time by putting together a puzzle or maybe five.

Idea number three is to tap into your culinary skills. Whether you're good at baking/ cooking or not, now's a good time to do it. If you have experience in the kitchen, you could challenge yourself to make something new. Or if you’re an amateur, you could cook/bake whatever you feel you are able to because right now is a fantastic time to learn.

*Idea number four *is to exercise. During this time, it is easy to overeat and lay around all day. But when’s a better time than right now to get fit and healthy? There are many options for exercising in quarantine. You could do at-home workouts; there are plenty on YouTube. You could go on a walk or a run. You could also ride your bike, skateboard, or roller skate.

“Since quarantine started I have been taking my dog, Lola, on walks because it’s nice to get out of the house for some fresh air and exercise,” said senior Halie Crider.

Idea number five is to exercise your brain. Believe it or not some people like to read for enjoyment, so now is the perfect time to read those books that you’ve been meaning to. Also, now is a great time to free write or journal if you’re into that—or write your own book!

*Idea number six *is to TikTok. TikTok is an app that allows you to watch and upload videos. (Who am I kidding. You already knew that.) It’s one of the most popular apps right now and the video content consists of comedy, dancing, beauty, challenges, and endless others. If you are into TikTok, now is the time to learn fun dances, do challenges, and maybe even become TikTok famous.

“I have been addicted to watching TikToks since quarantine started, but I really haven’t made many of my own,” admitted junior Trinity Sharpless.

Idea number seven is to treat yourself. Since most of us are at home every day, why not take this time to pamper yourself. You could do some skin care and face masks. You could give yourself a manicure or pedicure. You could do some online shopping. You could even cut or dye your own hair.

Lastly, idea number eight is to binge watch shows or movies. With all of the free time we now have, it’s the best time to watch all the movies and shows you’ve wanted to, but didn’t have the time for. Be sure to check Max’s story in this issue of the ECHO for some suggestions.

“I have been able to watch many movies and shows because of quarantine, but so far my favorite has been Chris D’elia’s new comedy show No Pain on Netflix,” said senior Josh Arend.

All in all whatever activity you choose to keep yourself occupied and entertained, just remember to stay safe and stay home!