The spread of the coronavirus has turned life upside down for people around the world. Everything has changed; the activities we normally take part in, the places we go and the people we see. And for young people currently on school holidays, they’re spending more time at home than ever before.
But, what this pandemic has shown is how adaptable and creative people are. Every day people are demonstrating ways to keep connected, remain mentally and physically active, stretch their thinking, and develop new skills, all while following the governments’ restrictions and recommendations.
Onkaparinga Youth has released its school holiday program offering a range of activities – from art and crocheting to fitness classes and skateboarding tips. And the best part is, you can get involved from your own home.
Some of the free activities include:
- Aboriginal arts video workshop – Kaurna artist Daphne Rickett explains the meaning of Aboriginal art symbols and shows you how to master them.
- Mindful minds Zoom meet up – A relaxing class combining yoga, meditation, breathing and visualisation.
- Get fit in iso Zoom meet up – An online class focussing on building up your fitness, strength and flexibility, all while having fun.
- Pro skate video tutorials – Local pro skateboarder Beau Hinge shares his tips on how to land all your favourite tricks.
- Anatomy drawing video workshop – Learn the basics of anatomical drawing with artist Thomas Readett. In this online workshop you will learn how to draw a skull from scratch.
- Jar of gratitude video tutorial – Learn how to make a gratitude jar from things that you already have at home.
- Tom boy challenge – Learn how to make a tomboy and begin the challenge to see how long you can get your Tomboy between now and the next school holidays.
- Surviving iso for artists Facebook watch party – Tune into this Facebook watch party for a session with hip hop artist SacredAlbino who shares her advice and tips on how to stay relevant and motivated during ISO.
- Surprise surprise – Like a little mystery? Have a surprise activity delivered direct to your door.
Check out the full list of activities here.
City of Onkaparinga Team Leader Youth Emma Cadd said council staff have been working to deliver existing and new programs online to ensure young people are supported during this time.
“In just a few weeks, we—like so many others—have jumped into this new world and altered the way we do things,” says Emma.
“Now, more than ever, it’s important we stay socially connected, continue to learn, and focus on our health and wellbeing.
“We’re really excited to offer our school holiday program and online; this platform may also entice young people to get involved in activities they wouldn’t normally and expose them to new ideas and experiences.”
The Duke of Edinburgh International Award is also being offered online during the pandemic.
The Duke of Edinburgh is a highly recognised youth development program which helps empower young people to realise their full potential while helping them find their passion and purpose.
Emma says participants must learn a skill, improve their physical wellbeing, volunteer in their community and experience a team adventure in a new environment.
Participants are guided and supported by a network of trained award leaders, assessors, supervisors, and mentors online and over the phone rather than in person.
“Young people are able to shape their award based on their own interests and they get to take part in the ‘adventurous journey’ component later in the year which gives them something to look forward to,” Emma says.
“The award is open to anyone between the ages of 14 and 24 and we offer funding support to help with the cost of the award.
“The award journey is an incredibly rewarding experience where young people are challenged and encouraged to reach their full potential.”
Secondary aged participants who complete the award also gain points towards their SACE.
Read more about this award and the Onkaparinga Youth program here.