I have many great memories of being a stay at home parent. I also have memories of days that seemed to move in slow motion where my energy ran out before it was bedtime. My heart goes out to all the parents who are juggling life with school closures. I am sure you are looking for creative ways to keep your kids learning and occupied. Here is a list of 6 free, safe, choices.

• Smithonsonian Kids: online activities to do at home.
• Virtual tours at 12 famous museums from Travel and Leisure (e.g., Guggenheim, British Museum, National Gallery of Art in D.C.)
• Authors Everywhere!: a Youtube Channel created and run by children’s book writers and illustrators. On this channel, you’ll find workshops, readings, activities, art projects, writing games, writing advice, and more.
• Storyline Online: videos featuring celebrated actors reading children’s books alongside creatively produced illustrations. Each book includes supplemental curriculum to strengthen comprehension, verbal and written skills for English-language learners.
• Emily Arrow: Sing At Home With Emily Arrow Monday – Friday 1:00 p.m. ET and 10:00 a.m. PST She also has many songs to sing along with anytime from her website.
• Jarrett J. Krosoczka—author & illustrator: Free art lesson webcasts from the author of theLunch Lady series and more. Every weekday at 11 am Pacific for “at least the next fewweeks.” If you can’t watch live, the episodes will be archived.

Someday you may look back on this time fondly. A time when you were all together, bonded by the challenges and came to know each other more deeply. Look for opportunities to laugh and make memories to look back on. Your children will grow up.

Time for a pillow fight.

Take good care. Sending love.

Ali Grimshaw, Life By Design Coaching