Mar. 24, 2020
Smartphones, tablets and computers can help educate, connect and entertain during social distancing.
During times of uncertainty, people rely on mobile devices more than ever to stay informed, prepared and connected. U.S. Cellular offers tips to help cope while social distancing.
1. Host virtual gatherings.
On Sunday, nearly 600,000 people downloaded the Zoom video-conferencing app – its biggest day ever. Meet with coworkers or host a digital happy hour with family and friends or a virtual playdate for kids. Other chat apps include FaceTime, Skype and Google Hangouts. It’s good to hear a person’s voice and uplifting to see smiling faces.
2. Get moving!
Feeling a little stir-crazy? Get motivated to move with options like Apple’s native Health app, FitOn, or Johnson & Johnson Official 7 Minute Workout. For runners, use Nike Run Club to follow along with friends and keep each another accountable.
3. Keep kids active, too.
GoNoodle offers movement and mindfulness videos created by child development experts. Kids can race through space, pop bubbles and make music all by jumping, dancing and waving. GoNoodle also offers GoNoodle: Good Energy at Home for free, including yoga and mindfulness videos and downloadable activities.
4. Entertain the family with a movie night.
Link up with friends and host long distance movie nights and TV watch parties with the new Netflix Party feature. Provider apps such as HBO and Disney+ offer streaming content, and Amazon Prime Video offers digital purchase of individual movies.
5. Stream a concert.
Many musicians, from well-known national artists to local bands, are streaming at-home concerts for free. Knox News has a continuously updated local list here.
6. Keep your kids up to date and make learning fun!
A lot of local schools use websites like Aspen or Google Classroom to virtually assign homework and deadlines. Apps such as ClassDojo, Prodigy or Duolingo help students catch up on a difficult subject or master a specific skill. Use games, quizzes and tests to help students get extra assistance. For ‘fun-ducational’ options, keep up with Knoxville Zoo’s “Bringing the Zoo to You” Instagram videos each day, explore the Tennessee Aquarium via webcam and take virtual tours of famous museums across the world.
7. Learn something new.
Always wanted to get that college degree? Colleges and universities offer online courses. YouTube is filled with tutorials for various interests from learning to play the piano to speaking a new language to fixing your bike.
Now is a great time to learn to cook; with more than 4,000 recipes and step-by-step instructions, Tasty makes it easy. The free app has something for every taste – with filters for vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, healthy and comfort food dishes.
8. Read a book.
With apps like Amazon Kindle (available on the Apple App Store and Google Play) and Apple Books, readers have thousands of books at their fingertips. If it’s easier to listen instead, Amazon Audible and Pocket Casts are excellent apps for entertainment or to learn something new with endless hours of connection.
9. Take time to care for yourself.
#SelfCare allows users to enter an augmented reality that fosters serenity. Whether it’s cuddling with a cat, lighting candles or simply staying in bed, this app says it’s OK to “choose you.”
10. Stay connected.
Social media sites, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, are a good way to quickly get and share information, see real-time updates and stay in contact with loved ones. Follow local restaurants and service providers to stay updated. Businesses are even encouraging customers to shop through Instagram’s direct messaging.
About U.S. Cellular
U.S. Cellular is the fifth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.
