School is out, kids are at home and we are supposed to socially distance ourselves… leaving us all wondering…what in the world are we going to do with these kids? Here are a few ideas…but if all else fails, turn on the tv or let them play with their tablets because we all have to juggle during this stressful time. And of course we need to take care of ourselves too!
*Free Learning Websites*
Switch Zoo: Animal Games, Animal Profiles, "Field Trips"
Fun Brain: Reading, Math Zone, Games
National Geography for Kids: The magazine comes to life with animals, videos, games and explorations
PBS Kids: Games, videos and sign up for daily activities
Star Fall: Reading activities for grades kindergarten-third
Suessville: All things Dr. Suess
Storyline Online: Celebrities read children's books through videos
Scholastic : Day to day projects to keep children learning
Raising Wonder-Free daily art activities and lessons
GoNoodle: Movement and mindfulness activities
Math Playground: Hundreds of math games, puzzles and educational resources
*What Mom's Are Saying*
These are kid-friendly activity suggestions given by readers
Cooking with Kids (I have this cute cookbook I enjoy with the kids)
Tippi Toes Online Dance Class (get a free 7 day trial here
Decluttering and organizing
Being forts
Movies (Disney+ to the rescue)
Building with legos
Crafts
Make cards to send to the local nursing home
Making obstacle courses
Gardening
Nature walks and hiking
Reading
Learn to play an instrument
Drawing and painting
Puzzles
Bubbles
Exercising (Kids Yoga on YouTube)
Board games
Sensory boxes
Slime, play doh, kinetic sand, shaving cream
Kiwi Crates
Sidewalk chalk
Play outside, climb trees
Facetiming friends and family
Dance parties (glow sticks for a glow in the dark dance party)
*Self-care for Moms
Join my book club to discuss good books
Paint your nails (a new color I'm eyeing)
Take a long shower or bubble bath
Order yourself some new pajamas (These are on sale for under $12)
Go for a walk or run
Give yourself a little spa night (These are my favorite eye masks)
*Additional Resources*
My friend Meghan has a great blog post on keeping kids busy
Emily Ley: Series of posts on Simplifying Life in a Crisis