Now that schools, daycares, and even libraries are closed down to reduce the spread of the Coronavirus, parents are looking for things to do to occupy their children while keeping their brains and bodies active. I (with the help of others) have put together a list of resources for families to use while quarantined or sheltering-in-place. These resources are targeted and families with toddlers, preschoolers, kindergartners, and elementary school kids. But, some would be great for older kids, too.

Resources for Virtual Playdates

Cisco is offering Webex free to the public due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak. You can have up to 100 participants per call and unlimited call time. Here is the link.

8×8 Video Meetings are free and web-based.

You can use Zoom for free 40 minutes meetings. You can have up to 100 participants during the virtual meeting.

Yoga and Relaxation for Kids

Cosmic Kids Yoga Youtube channel. Yoga through story-telling, mindfulness, and relaxation designed specially for kids aged 3+.

Peace Out – Bedtime FM. This is the best bedtime podcast! They tell short stories to help children calm down and relax by guiding them through the process of visualization and breathing exercises. It is designed for kids aged 3-7. But, beware, adults may also be put to sleep by this podcast.

Try yoga cards for kids or yoga blocks from Alex Toys for joyful yoga learning.

Art and Culture

Audio Books for Kids

Vox Talking Books. VOX™ Books are the world’s first audiobooks that live in print books. The permanently attached VOX™ Reader transforms an ordinary print book into an all-in-one read-along. There’s no need for computers, tablets or CDs. Children simply push a button to listen and read. VOX™ Books combine outstanding picture books with audio recordings that capture children’s attention and make learning and literacy development fun. TONS of good books for kids!

Do not miss! Audible now allows you to stream an incredible collection of stories, including titles across six different languages. It is free during COVID-19 quarantine.

Listen to amazing audio fairy tales via the Circle Round podcast produced by Boston Public Radio. Like Sesame Street, each episode features guest star that grownups will recognize performing in a compelling story for young children. Free for all!

Storyline Online. The website where you can stream videos featuring celebrated actors reading children’s books alongside creatively produced illustrations.

Scholastic free stories, videos, and books online during coronavirus quarantine

National Geographic Kids. Stories about animals, planets, science experiments.

Your kids can now watch astronauts reading stories from space

Actor Josh Gad ( Olaf from Frozen! ) Is Reading Books to Kids Online Every Night During Coronavirus Quarantines.

The Big List of Children’s Authors Doing Online Read Alouds & Activities

Educational Apps

Khan Academy Kids app, absolutely free app that keeps your preschoolers, kindergarteners and first graders busy. That is a great resource that helps kids not to lose knowledge during “the quarantine slide”. Educational and very fun!

Buzzle is a puzzle game for toddlers and early preschoolers that develops vocabulary.

Endless ABC is a word game that teaches children letters.

Try any of the preschool apps by Tiny Hands. That company focuses on educational games for toddlers and preschoolers.

ABC Mouse is offering a 30 days free and special deal, 49% OFF for annual subscription during the coronavirus quarantine.

Free Online Classes

450 Ivy League courses you can take online right now for free. These courses are mostly for adults and older kids.

Outdoor Toys

Indoor Toys that occupy kids for longer time

Stock Up on Activity Books

Play Boardgames as a family

Plant a Garden