With the Department of Education (DOE) and many schools facing temporarily closing due to lack of Federal funding , parents and caregivers are stepping into the role of educators more than ever. While this can feel overwhelming, there are countless free resources available to help you provide engaging and effective learning experiences for your children. Whether you’re looking for structured lesson plans, fun activities, or subject-specific tools, this list has you covered.
Here are some of the best free resources to keep your children learning and thriving during this time:
1. General Learning Platforms
These websites offer a wide range of subjects and grade-level resources, making them a great starting point for at-home learning.
- Khan Academy Kids
- Offers free, interactive lessons in math, reading, and more for children ages 2-7.
- Website: https://www.khanacademy.org/kids
- PBS LearningMedia
- Provides free, standards-aligned videos, games, and lesson plans for K-12 students.
- Website: https://www.pbslearningmedia.org
- Scholastic Learn at Home
- Free daily learning projects for grades PreK-9, covering reading, science, and social studies.
- Website: https://classroommagazines.scholastic.com
2. Reading and Literacy
Keep your child’s reading skills sharp with these free resources.
- Epic!
- Offers a free digital library of books for kids 12 and under.
- Website: https://www.getepic.com
- Storyline Online
- Features free read-aloud videos by celebrities, complete with activity guides.
- Website: https://storylineonline.net
- CommonLit
- Provides free reading passages and comprehension questions for grades 3-12.
- Website: https://www.commonlit.org
3. Math and Science
Make math and science fun with these interactive tools and lessons.
- Prodigy Math Game
- A free, game-based math platform for grades 1-8.
- Website: https://www.prodigygame.com
- Mystery Science
- Offers free science lessons and hands-on activities for K-5 students.
- Website: https://mysteryscience.com
- NASA STEM Engagement
- Free space and science-related lesson plans and activities.
- Website: https://www.nasa.gov/stem
4. Arts and Creativity
Encourage creativity and self-expression with these free arts resources.
- Crayola for Educators
- Free art lesson plans and creative activities for kids.
- Website: https://www.crayola.com/education
- The Kennedy Center ArtsEdge
- Free arts-integrated lesson plans for K-12 students.
- Website: https://artsedge.kennedy-center.org
5. Coding and Technology
Introduce your child to coding and technology with these beginner-friendly resources.
- Code.org
- Free coding lessons and activities for students of all ages.
- Website: https://code.org
- Scratch for Educators
- Free coding projects and lesson plans using Scratch.
- Website: https://scratch.mit.edu/educators
6. Physical Education and Health
Keep your kids active and healthy with these free resources.
- GoNoodle
- Free movement and mindfulness videos for kids.
- Website: https://www.gonoodle.com
- KidsHealth in the Classroom
- Free health and wellness lesson plans for elementary students.
- Website: https://classroom.kidshealth.org
7. Multilingual and ESL Resources
Support English language learners with these free tools.
- Colorín Colorado
- Free lesson plans and resources for English language learners (ELLs).
- Website: https://www.colorincolorado.org
- Duolingo
- Free language learning app for kids and adults.
- Website: https://www.duolingo.com
8. Social Studies and Civics
Teach your child about history, geography, and civic engagement with these resources.
- National Geographic Kids
- Free lesson plans and activities focused on geography, history, and culture.
- Website: https://kids.nationalgeographic.com
- iCivics
- Free civics and government lesson plans for elementary students.
- Website: https://www.icivics.org
Tips for Success
- Create a Routine: Establish a daily schedule to provide structure and consistency.
- Mix It Up: Combine screen time with hands-on activities to keep learning engaging.
- Stay Flexible: Allow time for breaks and adjust plans as needed.
While school closures can be challenging, they also present an opportunity to explore new ways of learning. With these free resources, you can create a rich and rewarding educational experience for your child at home.
Let’s make the most of this time together!
Feel free to share this post with other parents and caregivers who may find it helpful. Together, we can ensure our children continue to learn and grow, even during these uncertain times.
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