Recommended by CHC’s Education Specialists
Dear CHC Families,
We know that this time has been difficult for you all, and while we have seen and spoken to you and your children during your teletherapy sessions, we wanted to reach out and let you all know that we are thinking of you as you have been adjusting to a new (temporary) normal. Keep reminding yourself that you are providing your children with the utmost care and stability during such an uncertain time.
In case some of your go-to “tricks” or incentives seem to be running low, we’ve put together some online as well as hands-on activities that we thought your children might enjoy. If you come across any additional resources, please let us know and we will share them with the CHC community.
Parent resources for at-home activities
Indoor movement activities
We may think of movement as something meant for outdoors, but while stuck inside, movement is more important than ever! Not only are moving breaks fun and easy, but they are linked to increased attention, better focus, and bonding between participants.
Storytime resources
Have you already read every book on the book shelf? Don’t worry, check out these awesome resources.
35,000 books are just a click away and free of charge!
Libby is a free app that allows you to borrow e-books and digital audiobooks from your public library. You can stream books with Wi-Fi or mobile data, or download them for offline use and read anytime, anywhere. All you need to get started is a library card.
Each weekday at 1:00, fan-favorite children’s author, Mo Willems invites you to join him for ‘Lunch Doodle.” Tune in to doodle with Mo as well as explore writing.
What’s better than a good book? A good book read by a famous person! Story Online offers thousands of children’s books read aloud by celebrities.
Virtual field trips
No need to leave your house when you can visit sites around the world from your living room! The following websites offer free virtual explorations of fascinating places like the San Diego Zoo and the Great Wall of China.
At-home kids’ science experiments
What’s more fun than turning your home into a science lab? The following websites offer a variety of experiments to unleash the little scientist in each of your children!
Cooking with your kids
Another fun and meaningful way to pass the time is to cook with your kids! Children love being part of the process, so invite them to pick out recipes, measure the ingredients, and taste test the foods!
Scholastic Learn at Home: Day-to-day projects and lessons
For the busiest days at home, Scholastic has you covered. They have provided full lesson plans based on grade level, with new activities added every day. No work for you as a parent!
Free educational subscriptions
Because we are all hunkered down at home, hundreds of educational and children subscription websites are offering free memberships. Click on this link for a complete list of free subscriptions!
We hope these activities keep your children busy and engaged while lightening your stress load. If there are any your family particularly enjoys, or if you have any of your own, please share. We would love to see photos and videos if you try any of the science or cooking activities.
We’ll get through this together!
Dana Selznick, M.A., M.Ed. Assistant Director of Communication Services, Education and Family Support Shelley and Steven Einhorn Communication Center
Sivan Levy, M.A., M.Ed. Education Specialist