How to Keep Kids Inspired & Engaged During the Pandemic

HOW TO KEEP KIDS ENGAGED DURING THE PANDEMIC

Education looks a little different now than it did a month ago. Video streaming, digital classrooms, and online testing is now the norm. Thankfully, several local and global organizations have stepped up to provide free resources for families during this time of uncertainty. And how do you answer the uninspired words of “I’m bored” at home? Here are some ideas: 

Take a virtual field trip around the globe. 

Museums and educational institutions across the world are offering incredible virtual field trips. Teach your kids about snow leopards, explore Mars, and go on a “home safari” hosted by Cincinnati Zoo. See the full list that includes additional non-screen activities to engage kids. 
 

Conduct an experiment. 

KidsQuest Educators have gone virtual! Explore a wide variety of art, science and engineering activities to do from home. Build a paper airplane, make some slime or play dough, and practice early math skills.
 

Get crafty. 

Bellevue Arts Museum is delivering take-home craft activity kits to the Bellevue School District’s Grab and Go Meal and Childcare Program sites. You can also join BAM's education team online and make crafts using materials you can find around your house.
 

Write a poem. 

Our Bellevue Library may be closed, but creativity is still open! April is National Poetry Month, and KCLS Libraries are celebrating with their “Rhyme On” poetry contest. Enter your poem before April 30th for a chance to win. All ages welcome. 
 

Dive into a new book.

As schools remain closed due to the pandemic, Audible, the audiobook service owned by Amazon, is offering free streaming of selected children’s stories. The Audible Stories platform allows kids and teens to stream free audio books on a desktop, laptop, phone or tablet. 
 

Go on a bear hunt. 

People around the world have been putting teddy bears and other soft toys in windows, trees and balconies, encouraging children to get outside for a walk with their parents while hunting for bears. Inspired by the classic children’s book “We’re Going On A Bear Hunt” by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury, the trend has been getting a lot of attention on Facebook and Nextdoor.