I’ve shared before how setting up new habits like moving more, getting better sleep, and eating more protein can help create a healthier lifestyle. But have you considered the health perks of picking up a fun new skill?
Learning new skills keeps our minds sharp and healthy, which becomes crucial as we get older. It exercises our brains and boosts mental health, gives you and your kids more confidence, and introduces a new hobby! Hobbies offer a creative way to express yourself and reduce stress.
With our packed schedules, signing up for in-person classes can be tough and might seem too pricey. Thankfully, there are many online classes you can take from home, even in your pajamas! Some courses are accessible through apps, so you can learn something new while waiting in your car!
I’ve put together a list of interesting skills you can pick up through online classes, from hobbies like crocheting and learning a new language to useful life skills like budgeting or changing a tire. Choose something that excites you and have some fun!
These days, there’s a ton of information available for free or at a low cost, making traditional schooling for many skills feel unnecessary. Over the past few years, my kids and I have tried several online courses together. We’ve picked up fun abilities like solving the Rubik’s Cube, cooking, photography basics, and improving our chess skills.
We’ve taken some of these classes together, making them a fantastic way to bond as a family. Our goal is to learn a new skill as a family every few months.
Some of my top spots for online learning include Udemy, Skillshare, and Wondrium. These sites offer plenty of affordable courses. If nothing on this list interests you, search for something you’d love to explore!
Once you find a course you’re interested in, just gather the necessary supplies (you can even order them on Amazon to avoid leaving home!). Then you’re ready to dive into learning new, useful skills.
Growing up, my brother learned how to solve the Rubik’s Cube and eventually mastered it in under a minute! While I’m not that fast, my oldest three kids and I can finally solve the basic 3×3 cube. It’s a fun thing to show off to friends and family!
For this, you’ll need a basic 3×3 Rubik’s Cube and the “Master Rubik’s Cube in 4 Days” course.
I’ve always loved drawing but found that teaching it to my kids was harder than expected. We’ve all enjoyed taking art classes together and learned some new skills. I’m amazed by the drawings we’ve created!
You’ll need paper, markers, pens or pencils, and the “The Secrets to Drawing” course.
I have unpleasant memories of piano lessons with a grumpy teacher who had bad breath. I decided to give it another shot and started relearning the piano with help from Pianoforall and Hoffman Academy. Want to learn a different instrument like the banjo, violin, or ukulele? Check out Wondrium’s musical instrument offerings.
Grab the instrument of your choice (Amazon might have it) and explore the fun tutorials these sites offer.
My grandmother taught me chess as a child and never let me win. Beating her was a big achievement, as both my grandparents were Mensa members. Now, I enjoy playing with my kids and learning with them.
You’ll need a chessboard and the “Chess: From Beginner to Advanced at Warp Speed” course.
Many friends wish they could sew. I’m grateful for my mom’s patience teaching me, but for those who missed that opportunity, there’s still time! Online sewing courses can teach you to sew in a few weeks!
You’ll need a sewing machine, some fabric, and the “Startup Library: Sewing” course.
I know people who joke that their dogs are like wild animals. Mine were like that too until I learned you could easily train your dog at home!
You’ll need a dog and the “Science-Based Dog Training (with Feeling)” course.
I was skeptical about this next one. It was one of my experiments a few years ago, and I loved it! I’ve always wanted to improve my singing skills.
You’ll need yourself and the “How to Sing” course.
I’ve aimed to become a better photographer, and if you saw my early blog photos, you’d notice I’ve improved. I had fun enhancing my photography skills with this course.
You’ll need a DSLR camera and the “Photography Masterclass: Your Complete Guide to Photography” course.
Learning faster is a skill anyone can use! I’ve talked about speed-reading tools my kids use, and there are great online courses to help with it.
You’ll need yourself and the “Become a SuperLearner 2: Learn Speed Reading & Boost Memory” course.
My kids wanted to learn painting, so it’s been part of our homeschool curriculum. They’re learning to paint while discovering Impressionism, and I love displaying their artwork at home.
You’ll need oil or acrylic paints and the “Impressionism – Paint this Farmhouse with Oils or Acrylics” course.
Music theory helps with any instrument. I learned it as a kid, but it’s been a while. Our family is using an online course so my kids can learn and I can refresh my knowledge!
You’ll need the “Music Theory Comprehensive Complete! (Levels 1, 2, & 3)” course.
Learning a new language is great for travel or broadening your horizons. If you’re looking to help your kids learn a language, visit Talkbox.mom. They offer languages from French and Spanish to Hebrew, Romanian, Korean, and more!
Check out Talkbox.mom courses and start learning a new language.
Want to make money online? This course teaches you how to create a YouTube channel, covering video shooting, scripting, and editing.
You’ll need video recording equipment and the “YouTube Success: Script, Shoot & Edit with MKBHD” course on Skillshare.
Want to help your kids learn budgeting, money management, problem-solving, independence, and career skills? LifeSkillsNow offers practical courses that include basic first aid, tire changing, and flower arranging.
Sign up for a module at LifeSkillsNow.
Curious about calligraphy, origami, or magic tricks? How about hip-hop dancing or juggling? Making a DIY crochet blanket? These creative skills are a fun way to spend your time and maybe find a new hobby!
Gather the necessary supplies and search for the course you’re interested in.
Have you always wanted to keep bees? This course offers step-by-step guidance, helping you start keeping bees and enjoy fresh honey while helping the planet!
Check out the Introduction to Beekeeping course at NewBee University.
Thinking about learning graphic design? It’s a good side gig that can earn extra money. Many online classes cover basics to expert levels. Try a Canva course to save on software costs.
You’ll need a computer, a free Canva account, and “The Complete Canva Course.”
Our family enjoys cooking together, and my kids have taken on some responsibilities. They’ve learned basics through courses, not just cooking for themselves but healthy cooking too!
You’ll need kitchen tools, ingredients, and the “Kids Cook Real Food” course.
There are countless online courses where you and your family can learn new skills, find hobbies, boost confidence, and spend quality time together. Choose something you’ve always wanted to learn and dive in!
Have you ever wished to learn a skill but thought it was too hard? Have you tried a new skill and found a hobby you love?
