I've talked before about raising new habits that help create a healthier lifestyle, such as increased movement, more sleep and eating more protein. But have you ever thought about the health benefits of learning a fun new skill?
Learning new things keeps our minds sharp and healthy, which is important as we age. Not only does it give your brain some exercise, but it's a great way to help your mental health. Learning a new skill gives you and your kids confidence, plus it has the added bonus of having a new hobby! Hobbies are a creative way for you to express yourself, which helps reduce stress.
Finding time to learn
With our busy schedules, it can be difficult to register for in-person classes. And you might think it will be expensive to learn a new skill. Fortunately, there's a world of online classes you can take from the comfort of your own home (and in your pajamas!). Some of these courses are even accessible through apps, so you can learn something while you're waiting in your car!
I've compiled a list of great skills you can learn from online classes—from hobbies like crochet to learning a foreign language to life skills like budgeting or changing a flat tire. Find one you'll enjoy sharpening your skills and having fun!
18 useful and fun skills to learn online
There is so much information available for free or for a reasonable fee that going to school for many skills seems like a waste of time and money. Over the past few years, my children and I have taken several of these online courses together. We've learned fun skills like solving the Rubik's cube, cooking, the basics of digital photography and how to be better chess players.
The best part?
We have taken several of these classes together and they have been a great way to spend time together as a family. Each year, our plan is to learn a new skill as a family every two months.
Some of my favorite places to take online courses include Udemy, Sharing skillsAND Wondrium. These websites have many courses that you can take for very reasonable prices. If you don't see something you like on this list, search for something you'd like to learn!
All you need to do once you find the course you want to take is get some supplies (you can even order them on Amazon, so you don't have to leave the house!). Then you are ready to get some useful new skills.
1. How to solve a Rubik's cube
My brother learned how to solve a Rubik's Cube when we were growing up and eventually could do it in less than a minute! I'm certainly not that fast yet, but my three older kids and I can finally solve the basic 3×3 Rubik's Cube. This great skill is a fun thing you can do to impress your loved ones!
To learn, you will need a 3×3 Rubik's Cube (this is our favorite) and course “Master Rubik's Cube in 4 days.”
2. Learn to draw
I've always loved drawing, but I've found that it's harder than I expected to pass this skill on to my children. We've all had to take art classes together, and I've learned some new skills as well. I am amazed at the drawings we created!
To learn, you will need paper and markers, pens or pencils, and the course called “Secrets of drawing.”
3. Learn to play a musical instrument
I have horrible memories of piano lessons with a grumpy teacher who smelled bad. I decided to try again and this time I'm working on remembering how to play the piano with the help of Pianoforte AND Hoffman Academy. Do you want to learn another instrument like banjo, violin, ukulele or other instruments? Check out Wondruim's musical instrument offerings.
To learn, you will need the instrument of choice (you can find it on Amazon). Check out the memberships on these sites for some fun tutorials.
4. How to play chess (or get better at it)
My grandmother taught me to play chess as a child and I always liked it. She also never let me win. Beating her was one of the crowning achievements of my life, like both of my grandparents. were in the canteen, and she was quite the lady! Now, I love playing with my children and learning with them.
To learn, you will need a chess board and course”Chess: From Beginner to Advanced at Warp Speed.”
5. The basics of sewing
I have so many friends who love to sew. I am so thankful for my mom and her endless patience in teaching me when I was a child, but for those who didn't get that chance… there is still time to learn! There are some great sewing courses online, and you can learn to sew in a matter of weeks!
To learn, you will need a sewing machine (this is what we have), fabric and course “Starter Library: Stitching.”
6. How to train your dog
I know some people who joke that their dogs are just wild animals living in their homes. I realized that my dogs have always been like that too. They weren't mean or harmful, but they also didn't like to sit, stand, come or fetch… much less do anything more advanced. It turns out you can train your dog at home, and it's a lot easier than it sounds!
To learn, you'll need a dog and course”Science-Based Dog Training (with Feeling).”
7. How to sing
I'll admit I had my reservations about this one. It was one of my New Year's experiments a few years ago. I liked! I always wanted to get better at singing, but I never had the opportunity to take lessons. (The courses promise that anyone can sing!).
To learn, you will need yourself and the course”How to sing.”
8. Photography masterclass
I always wanted to become a better photographer. If you've seen any of my earlier blog photos, you'll see that I've definitely made some progress. I had fun learning how to improve my photography skills with this course.
To learn, you'll need one DSLR camera and “Photography Masterclass: Your Complete Guide to Photography.“
9. Ways to learn faster
Learning faster is a valuable skill that everyone can use! I talked about specific speed reading tools that my kids use in this post about ours favorite homeschool toolsbut there are also some great online courses to help with the process.
To learn, you will need yourself and the course”Become a SuperLearner 2: Learn Speed Reading and Boost Your Memory.”
10. How to paint like a pro
My kids wanted to learn how to paint, so we have added it as one of our classes to our homeschool curriculum for several years. Not only are they learning how to paint, but they are also learning about impressionism. I love their artwork and I love them displaying it Around the house.
To learn, you will need oil or acrylic paints and the course “Impressionism – Paint this farmhouse with oils or acrylics.”
11. The basics of music theory
Music theory is useful for learning any instrument, and while I learned it as a kid, I don't remember enough to learn it well. We are using an online course as a family so the kids can learn and as a refresher for me!
To learn, you will need the course “Comprehensive Music Theory Complete! (Levels 1, 2 and 3).”
12. Learn a new language
Learning a new language is a great way to prepare for a trip to a foreign country or simply to expand your horizons and stretch your brain. If you want to help your kids learn a new language, check it out Talkbox.mami. They promise that you can help your family members learn the language even if you don't know it! And not only do they have the typical French and Spanish, but they also have Hebrew, Romanian, Korean and more.!
To learn, see the courses at Talkbox.mami and start learning.
13. How to create YouTube videos
Search to earn money with an online job? This course helps you learn how to create a YouTube channel. You'll find everything you need to be successful, including video recording, scripting, and video editing so you can take your videos to the next level.
To learn, you will need video recording equipment and the course YouTube Success: Script, Shoot and Edit with MKBHD on Skillshare.
14. Teach your children life skills
Want to help your kids learn about budgeting, money management, problem solving, independence, job and career skills, and more? Check out #LifeSkillsNow for online courses for your kids. Their courses provide practical and essential skills for your children. They also include basic first aid, how to change a flat tire and how to arrange a bouquet of flowers.
To learn, sign up for one of the modules (or both!) at #LifeSkillsNow.
15. Learn a new creative skill
Always wanted to know how to do calligraphy or origami? What about magic tricks and card tricks? What about hip-hop dance for beginners or juggling? Always wanted to make a DIY crochet blanket? These creative skills can be a fun way for you and your kids to practice in your spare time, plus they can provide entertainment and some will even bring a few laughs. You might just find a new hobby!
To learn, you will need all the necessary supplies and research for the course you have want to learn here.
16. Introduction to beekeeping
Have you always wanted to keep bees? This course is a great way to learn all about beekeeping. It will give you step-by-step instructions to build the confidence to start this new hobby. You can enjoy fresh honey while helping the earth too!
To learn, watch this Introduction to beekeeping at the University of NewBee.
17. Learn graphic design on Canva
Have you always wanted to learn graphic design? It's another great side gig and way to make extra money from home! There are many classes online, ranging from the basics to the expert level. Check out a course that Canva teaches you and you'll save money on software.
To learn, you'll need a computer, a free Canva account, and the course “Complete Canva Course.”
18. Teach your children to cook
Our family cooks together and as my children have gotten older, they have been able to take on some of the responsibilities themselves. They have taken courses to teach them the basics of cooking and it has been worth it. Not only are they learning to cook for themselves, but also how to cook healthy!
To learn, you will need kitchen tools, ingredients and “Online course for children cook real food.
There are so many online courses where you and your family can learn interesting skills, find a new hobby, build confidence and spend time together! Just pick something you've always wanted to learn and get started.
Have you ever wanted to learn a skill but thought it would be too difficult? Have you tried a new skill and found a new hobby that you love?
