As we all navigate through these very challenging times, I have decided to add a new feature to my website – Tips for Parents. My adverting partner, NY Metro Parents, has offered content that I can share with you and your families for virtual fun and educational activities! This feature will be updated weekly. We hope you all enjoy!
15 Museums Offering Virtual Tours
Who said quarantining had to lack culture? These kid-friendly museums in NYC and across the globe are offering virtual tours, so your family can experience world-class exhibits from the comfort of your couch.
10 Educational Apps for Kids
Wondering how to keep your kids entertained once they finish their schoolwork? Give one of these apps—all recommended by Common Sense Media—a try! Bonus: All of the apps are fun and educational.
26 Kid-Friendly Documentaries
Who said screen time can’t be both fun and educational? All of these documentaries are adult- and kid-approved, meaning they’re perfect for a family movie night, or afternoon, or, um, morning. Bonus: They have the power to transform one’s view of the world and expand horizons in ways even the best books can’t.
How to Livestream Zoos and Aquariums
Visiting zoos and aquariums may be off the table, but your little animal lovers can still get their wildlife fix! These institutions across the country have livestreams of animal exhibits, zookeeper Q-and-As, and more. Check out Georgia Aquarium’s jelly fish cam for a surprisingly calming, mesmerizing feed!
7 Ways to Celebrate a Quarantine Birthday
Were your child’s birthday sadly canceled this year due to the coronavirus? Don’t fret: There are still plenty of ways you can make the day special, even if your child can’t physically be with their friends. It will definitely be a birthday they remember!
Staying Social While Social Distancing
The emotional effects of social distancing can be significant for kids. After all, before quarantine, they were with their friends and peers for the majority of the week. Having social connections can help kids feel supported and calm, and reduce anxiety. Thankfully, we have more than just social media to stay connected.
13 Educational TV Show Kids Will Love
Many parents have allowed their kids more than their usual share of TV time. And hey, that’s okay. We all need a time-out from homeschooling and stuck-in stress. But what if that TV was educational? Even less guilt, right? These shows, recommended by Common Sense Media, are both educational and entertaining!
Celebrity Read Alouds that Bring Stories to Life
Actors from children’s favorite movies (Moana, Toy Story, Frozen, and Enchanted to name a few), children’s book authors, Dolly Parton, Michelle Obama, and others are hosting virtual storytimes for children across social media. So whether your kids need to be entertained for a few minutes, a new way to wind down at night, or a little spirit lifting during these uncertain times, these read alouds will be a hit!
10 Items, 100 Crafts
Looking for easy crafts your kids can do at home with supplies you likely have on hand? Michael’s pulled together a list of 100 different projects that can be made with just 10 items, including construction paper, beads, clothespins, pom poms, pipe cleaners, and popsicle sticks!
The Best Online Workouts for Kids
Are your little ones going a little stir-crazy? Let them get their energy out (in a way that won’t drive you crazy!) with one of these online classes. From yoga and Zumba to soccer and dance, these programs will keep your kids active and having fun!
8 Graduation Party Alternatives for Celebrating While Social Distancing
If your child is part of the class of 2020, particularly in high school or college, she’s probably not happy about how the year ended and might be coping with graduation loss. However, with a little creativity, you can still make a special celebration for your graduate with these graduation party alternatives that still adhere to social distancing guidelines.
15 Virtual Escape Rooms and Games Your Family Will Love
If you’re looking for a new twist to family game night—or want to give your kids something fun to do with their friends during Zoom, Google Hangout, or FaceTime social calls—try a virtual escape room game! While they’re another screen-time activity, the brainteasers are educational: you have to solve clues, answer riddles, and more to escape the room!