FREE and FUN Online Resources That Aren’t YouTube

The amazing Common Sense Media organization has done it again—this time by providing this list of scheduled and anytime events, lessons, and activities for kids who are stuck at home during the coronavirus pandemic. There’s something here for all age levels, toddler to adult. (I’m looking forward to some of the virtual tours, myself.)

“Whether you want easy lesson plans from Scholastic, a living room concert from John Legend, or a drawing lesson from Mo Willems, there’s no shortage of fun things to do online. We even have tools to help you find free or reduced-cost internet in your area. So check out this list of resources and events (we’ll be updating it as new things are announced).”

The scheduled events can help give those looooong days at home a sense of structure and routine. (Note that all times listed are for the Pacific time zone.) Resources include:

  • Virtual storytimes with well-known authors and voices (picture books and chapter books)
  • Virtual drawing lessons with a variety of illustrators
  • Music classes and performances of everything from pop to Broadway to opera
  • Other fun stuff, including farm tours and virtual cooking classes

There are also lots of anytime resources, including:

  • Free and low-cost ways to get online
  • Educational activities and lesson plans
  • Arts, Film, and Music Lessons and Resources (including writing!)
  • Audiobooks and virtual storytime
  • Virtual tours
  • Fun & games

Bookmark the list for those inevitable “I’m so bored” moments, and while you’re there, be sure to check out their searchable family-friendly reviews of movies you can watch at home.

Enjoy!