- The SYNC free summer audiobook program for teens is now available for use in Sora. Students just need to register for this free program at: https://www.audiobooksync.com/.
- Celebrate Earth Day From Home
- School Library Month Tic-Tac-Toe
- Read Alouds
- Scholastic Magazine
- At Home with Emily Arrow: Every day this week, Emily is hosting a live storytime on her YouTube channel. We sing Emily's songs often in our K & 1 library classes, so my students would be very happy to see her while they are away from school! If families can't watch live, they can watch anytime at youtube.com/emilyarrow.
- Story Time with Mac Barnett: Mac Barnett is reading one of his picture books every day at noon Pacific Time live on Instagram. I've heard him read some of his books before and he's amazing! He's got a great sense of humor and he really cares about kids and that comes through.
- Keep kids busy and learning. Get a full day's schedule of lessons, activities, and more. At Wide Open School
- Free documentaries. From coral reefs to cricket, docus streaming on Netflix's YouTube channel teach quarantined kids about a huge range of topics. Check 'em out
Podcasts for the Whole Family
Don't Break the Rules, Pinna
This fun series uses wacky characters, fart jokes, and more to introduce improv concepts to kids. Four cartoon voice actors get a character developed by a kid, then must act out a situation without "breaking the rules" of improv: no breaking character and no ignoring a story element someone else has introduced. It's certainly silly but might encourage kids to create their own improvised stories. Pinna, the production company, usually charges a monthly fee after a 30-day trial, but they're extending that offer to 60 days during the coronavirus pandemic.
Eleanor Amplified, WHYY in Philadelphia
An old-timey radio show with a high-tech twist, this adventure series follows famous radio reporter Eleanor Amplified as she gets the scoop—and the crafty villains. With incredible sound effects and a lively voice cast, this series for tweens will keep the energy up as the days go by.
Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest, Pinna
Some kids may be open to a little bit of spookiness in their stories, and if so, this eerie series from award-winning author Adam Gibwitz is for them. With real kids' commentary throughout and tips for what to do if it gets too scary or icky, these darker but still kid-friendly fairy tales are sure to enthrall. (Part of the Pinna network; qualifies for the 60-day free trial.)
The Mysterious Disappearance of Mars Patel, Gen-Z Media
The gripping mystery, sci-fi excitement, and excellent young voice cast of this award-winning series will keep your kids riveted to the speakers from start to finish. More than that, Mars Patel is an incredible role model, and this podcast is chock-full of positive messages about friendship and bravery. (Part of the Pinna network; qualifies for the 60-day free trial.)
Pants on Fire, Kids Listen
Laughing, learning, and calling grown-ups liars are all central parts of this fun game show-style podcast. A real kid is tasked with determining which of two "experts" on a subject is telling the truth, while the engaging, funny hosts guide them through their questions. The topics cover a wide range from soap to sleep and archery to anime, so you can find topics that interest your family or learn something totally new.
The Punies, Granity Studios
If you need a podcast for your young sports lover, then this scripted series about a ragtag group of kid athletes is for you. With characters developed by Kobe Bryant and a focus on the importance of teamwork, sporting conduct, and believing in yourself, this positive series is a winner for families. And the musical interludes are so catchy, you might find yourself humming them all day.
Six Minutes, Gen-Z Media
With strong themes about family (and siblings working together), this tween-friendly podcast about an 11-year-old girl who discovers she has incredible abilities (and a magical hoverboard) might be a great way to keep the peace. Episodes are only six minutes long, but you won't want to stop after just one.
Story Pirates, Gimlet Media
This high-energy series is perfect for when feeling stuck indoors has everyone a little punchy. Each episode takes two stories written by real kids and has a talented cast of raucous voice actors turn them into ridiculous audio performances. Because they're directly pulled from kids' imaginations, the stories don't always make much sense (and are prone to potty humor), but the creativity alone is comedy gold.
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