Looking for Distractions? How About Learning Something New?

For a lot of people, the online learning space is something completely new. Though it's been around for quite a while, it's become more popular now that we're in quarantine mode. 

I really like online courses, even before I was sheltering-in-place. You can take them from anywhere, at any time. Finish them at your convenience and at your own pace. Even better, many of the classes are free or very reasonably priced.

There's something for every hobby or interest, and several platforms to choose from. You may have already heard of Lynda.com (now owned by LinkedIn) or Udemy, but here are a few others to check out.

Reedsy Learning – free classes offered by Reedsy, a network for publishing professionals. If you're looking for some perspectives on writing, editing, marketing and distribution, there's a decent selection to choose from. Course content is delivered directly to your email inbox
https://blog.reedsy.com/learning/ 

CreativeLive – I've taken quite a few classes on this platform over the years. They specialize in photography and design for creative hobbyists and professionals. When you sign up, they usually offer special pricing for individual classes and course bundles.
https://www.creativelive.com/

Skillshare – another learning platform with lots of classes for creatives. In addition to design, crafting and writing, they also have classes in personal and professional development. All classes are available for one yearly (or monthly) fee.
https://www.skillshare.com

Prefer to be entertained instead? Maybe you'd rather relax and enjoy. If so, here are some suggestions for you!

The National Theater in London is closed until the end of June, but their YouTube channel is featuring their productions. You can set reminders for upcoming premiers and watch behind the scenes videos.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUDq1XzCY0NIOYVJvEMQjqw

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has also uploaded several performances, including short videos and profiles.
 https://www.youtube.com/user/AileyOrganization/featured

Mural Arts Philadelphia offers short virtual tours of murals from around the city.
https://www.muralarts.org/virtual-tours/

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has a selection of virtual tours of current and past exhibits.
https://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/virtual-tour