Online Resources For Kids and Families
We made this page to support our families and caregivers of children staying at home during the pandemic. We have highlighted our online resources that are made for kids and other resources that can provide activities and educational supports.
Libby Kid’s reading room
Did you know that our Libby online library has a collection of “Read-Along” kid’s books? These books are great for emerging readers. As the narrator reads the story out loud, each word being read is highlighted on the page for your child to follow along. A fun way to encourage literacy!
Libby Teen’s reading room
A collection just for teens and tweens. New release fiction and classic titles. ebook and audiobook format.
Language Learning with KidSpeak
KidSpeak™ is a fun, age-appropriate online language course designed for children ages 6 and up! Accessible through Transparent Language Online, KidSpeak introduces your children to English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Mandarin Chinese. The program teaches words and phrases suitable for learners’ age, needs, and interests. More than 40 activities, puzzles, and songs guide young learners through the basics, along with a cartoon “friend” who speaks the language. KidSpeak™ works on computers, tablets, and phones – so your little ones can learn on the go, at home, or in the library.
CBC Corner
Discover the best Canadian shows, stories & more! This one-of-a-kind digital portal allows you to access a wide variety of educational content for all ages. Kids content includes shows, games, and activities. Teen and young adult content includes news adapted for youth and stories by youth for youth. The parenting section features recipes, crafts & activities, advice, and shows.
Talking to kids about COVID-19
Jasper and Tabitha Play a Trick on the Coronas
https://playatrickonthecoronas.weebly.com/
Dr. Taylor Purvis is a medical doctor who has written a cute and approachable story to teach children the facts about Covid-19. Her story discusses the ways different members of the community can contribute during this time as well as the ways that we can all keep healthy and safe.
Coronavirus a book for children
Published by Nosy Crow, and written by Nosy Crow staff, and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. This book was written with the assistance of Professor Graham Medley of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Good resource to read to school age children about the coronavirus and the measures taken to control it. Free for anyone to read on screen or print out.
Kids, COVID19, and mental health video by Grey Bruce Public Health
Mental Health Resources
https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-info/were-here-for-you-during-covid-19-novel-coronavirus/
Fun Family Activities
Escape Room Activity
Find your way out of our Disney themed escape room!
Storytime with Stephanie
Stephanie recorded a special edition of story time from home!
Storytime with Lainie
Covid-19 Time Capsule Worksheet Package
Created by Natalie Long of LONG Creations this fun and easy set of worksheets will preserve your child’s thoughts (and adorable penmanship) for years to come. There are French and Adult versions available as well!
St. John Ambulance Digital Therapy Dogs
Tinker the therapy dog visits with you virtually!
Educational
Learn at Home Ontario’s online learning portal for K-12
National Geographic Kids: Games, quizes and videos.
Scholastic Learn at Home: Twenty days of active learning journeys.
Math Games: Select your grade (K-8), the math skills you’re working on, and play!
Typing Practice Improve typing skills with fun challenges and lessons.
Story times
Brightly Storytime: A great selection of picture books read aloud by storyteller Ms. Linda.
https://www.readbrightly.com/topics/brightly-storytime/
Girl Tales Podcast: For middle school aged kids a podcast featuring re-imagined fairytales- with a feminist twist!
Story Pirates: A quirky and hilarious podcast for kids. Stories are submitted by children and then brought to life in a series of podcasts by talented performers.
https://www.storypirates.com/podcast