Wherever you're at in the world, you’re likely a few weeks into a pretty significant lock-down with the COVID-19 virus spreading and prompting more time indoors and away from public outings.  This includes school and if you aren’t already the 3.4% of the US households that home schools, you’re likely already asking if you can sneak wine into “recess” and if the kids cleaning out their closets counts as Home Economics. 

We hear you.  We see you. And even though we can’t high-five you or hoist you in a heroic honor, we definitely want to support you from afar. Here, we share the top 7 resources we have heard pack the most punch without demanding a degree in education or a ton of energy. (Note to self:  make Teacher’s end-of-year gratitude gift radically better this year).

Outschool

Kim David, CEO of KindnessClubhouse and Project Stella, is a master of creating curriculum for both her 5th grade daughter and her Central Arizona College students. She states, “Outschool is my new favorite resource because they offer a huge variety of classes, some themed, and to fit any schedule. Stella [her daughter] is learning about writing, drawing, anime, and so much more. They also have themed classes that cover all subjects but meet the interest of students. For example this Harry Potter themed Goal-Setting class!

Google Arts + Museums

Tara Davis, a homeschooling mother of 5 and owner of Davis Family Goats (a farm that is open to the public with every animal you can think of) sent out a link that lists tons of free options during this time as “temp teachers”.  She writes generously, “All of my wonderful friends who are now homeschooling (temporarily), here was a list of websites that another homeschooling mom posted a few days ago that are giving away free educational resources during this time of need. I personally have previously used MobyMax, SpellingCity, and XtraMath, but I'm excited to look at some of these other ones too.”  In it we noticed at the top of the list was an incredible opportunity to see so much of the world - even from your kitchen-turned-classroom. Google Arts & Culture teamed up with over 500 museums/galleries around the world to bring everyone virtual tours and online exhibits of some of the most famous museums around the world. 

Ascend Math

If you’re already bypassing the calculator and begging Siri to help you divide improper fractions, you’re probably like the rest of the world right now. Is it just us or do 4th graders solve math problems you recall barely passing in high school, have no fear. There is a “solution”. Become a Math Mom when you invest in a free resource like Ascend Math. Ascend Math is a K to 12 math instructional resource that provides an individual study plan for each student. Ascend Math's study plans are unique to each student, prescriptive, adaptive, and automatically assigned. Add this deal to your cart and subtract the cost and chaos of having to re-learn it all over again! 

Big Life Journal

In times like these, having engaging resources that help kids develop a growth and resilient mindset so they can face life’s challenges with confidence is paramount! Big Life Journal hosts a free podcast as well as free printables to go with the podcasts, weekly free printables to enhance learning, and a free "Parent's Guide to a Growth Mindset". 

P.E. with Joe 

Get more than just the brains activated.  One of the benefits to having to be at home is not having to be in your cubicle or a classroom setting, sitting. This brand new YouTube sensation, Joe, is a Physical Education teacher that inspires movement and mobility! Allison Benjamin encourages her now-homeschooling Moms on Facebook, “I am challenging you to a PE: Get active from home challenge with Joe Wicks! You can do this in your backyard or anywhere in your home! I will post a workout video every morning. Remember it is OKAY if you can not do something as long as you TRY! NEVER GIVE UP! Make sure you stretch beforehand and modify as needed! I don't expect you to do this all. Do what you can!” 

Duolingo

Ever wanted to learn a second language but didn’t have the time to do so.  Well, what’s stopping you now? Learning with Duolingo is fun and addictive. Earn points for correct answers, race against the clock, and level up. Duolingo’s bite-sized lessons are effective and also Duolingo lessons adapt to your learning style. Exercises are tailored to help you learn and review vocabulary effectively. Prepare for when the quarantine lifts and travel is no longer restricted and use Duolingo as an incentive to learn all about a language and culture you look forward to visiting post-coronavirus.

The Science Spot

It’s only a matter of days before your kids want to do something more interactive at home.  Science is all around us so even if we can’t go far, there’s plenty to do with common household objects in every room! The Science Spot offers resources to hundreds of take-home science projects that can be completed with or without Internet access. This way your kids are using their brains and cleaning out the junk drawer while they’re at it!  

Of course, there are thousands of Educational Companies Offering Free Subscriptions due to School Closings and they are always being Updated.  Continue to search and share what you find in our comment section below!