# data[].attributes.body
Here are some free online games for your child to play at home!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Web-based games can prove to be a treasure trove of learning opportunities, and there are a variety of content-areas, age ranges, and skill levels to choose from. The true pay dirt for browser-based learning games can be found on large online digital game hubs. Here are 10 game hubs players that teachers can use to as one tool in their arsenal.

Headed by Brad Sheppard, Sheppard Software hosts hundreds of free, online, educational games for kids. The site organizes its games into categories, which allow students and teachers to easily navigate by subject area and find a suitable game that caters to either an instructional need or a child's sense of curiosity and thirst of knowledge and challenge.

PBS KIDS creates curriculum-based entertainment. The games site hosts a number of browser-based gaming experiences based on popular literary and media franchises such as The Cat in the Hat, Curious George, Sesame Street, and more. Games are organized by subject-type, which includes math, healthy habits, science, reading, and teamwork.

Created by Greg Nussbaum, a Virginia public school teacher, Mr. Nussbaum boasts over 3,500 content pages with a wide variety of learning games organized by content type and grade level. This site is also optimized for use on a tablet and an interactive whiteboard.

The world-famous National Geographic hosts over 100 fun, engaging, and interactive science, action, adventure, geography, quiz, and puzzle games. For a free game hub, the production quality on games or interactives such as Wildest Weather, On the Trail of Captain John Smith, and The Underground Railroad: Journey to Freedom is truly remarkable.

Under the creative direction of Jeff Kinney, author of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Poptropica® is a virtual world in which kids explore and play in complete safety. Every month, millions of kids from around the world are entertained and informed by Poptropica's engaging quests, stories, and games.

Funbrain, created for kids ages preschool through grade 8, offers more than 100 fun, interactive games that develop skills in math, reading, and literacy. Plus, kids can read a variety of popular books and comics on the site, including Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Amelia Writes Again, and Brewster Rocket.

The British counterpart of our PBS, the BBC, offers interactive digital games and activities involving subjects such as literacy, numeracy, history, mathematics, music, and the arts. The games are also categorized into age ranges. The cartoon graphics are very appealing for children, but the content is stellar for teachers and parents that want children to play to learn.

With games and activities that meet curriculum needs for math, science, language arts, and social studies, Primary Games houses over 1,000 game titles. The site includes curriculum guides for teachers to use in conjunction with the games.

This game site offers teacher-created and approved educational computer games for elementary students to learn math and language arts on the web. Featured by The New York Times, Apple, and Fox News, ABCYa.com provides young children well-crafted games and activities.

Arcademic Skill Builders are online educational video games that offer a powerful approach to learning basic math, language arts, vocabulary, and thinking skills. Arcademic games challenge students to improve their scores through repetitive, timed learning drills that provide immediate feedback.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Free Online Educational Game Sites | KQED

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Web-based games can prove to be a treasure trove of learning opportunities, and there are a variety of content-areas, age ranges, and skill levels to choose from. The true pay dirt for browser-based learning games can be found on large online digital game hubs.

# data[].attributes.body
Here is 4 tips on how to use Class Dojo. We will be using this a lot this year!!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
4 Tips for Parents Using the Class Dojo Mobile App

# data[].attributes.body
Some websites students can use at home!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Great Free Websites for Elementary School | Common Sense Education

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The best free sites for elementary students. Explore this 10 Great Free Websites for Elementary School Top Picks list of 10 tools curated by Common Sense Education editors to find relevant and engaging edtech solutions for your classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
Here are some ways to help your child succeed!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Support from parents is key to helping kids do well academically. Here are 10 ways parents can put their kids on track to be successful students.

1. Attend Back-to-School Night and Parent-Teacher Conferences

Kids do better in school when parents are involved in their academic lives. Attending back-to-school night at the start of the school year is a great way to get to know your child's teachers and their expectations. School administrators may discuss school-wide programs and policies, too.

Attending parent-teacher conferences is another way to stay informed. These are usually held once or twice a year at progress reporting periods. The conferences are a chance to start or continue conversations with your child's teacher, and discuss strategies to help your child do his or her best in class. Meeting with the teacher also lets your child know that what goes on in school will be shared at home.

If your child has special learning needs, additional meetings can be scheduled with teachers and other school staff to consider setting up or revising individualized education plans (IEPs), 504 education plans, or gifted education plans.

Keep in mind that parents or guardians can request meetings with teachers, principals, school counselors, or other school staff any time during the school year.

2. Visit the School and Its Website

Knowing the physical layout of the school building and grounds can help you connect with your child when you talk about the school day. It's good to know the location of the main office, school nurse, cafeteria, gym, athletic fields, playgrounds, auditorium, and special classes.

On the school website, you can find information about:

the school calendar

staff contact information

upcoming events like class trips

testing dates

Many teachers maintain their own websites that detail homework assignments, test dates, and classroom events and trips. Special resources for parents and students are also usually available on the district, school, or teacher websites.

p

3. Support Homework Expectations

Homework in grade school reinforces and extends classroom learning and helps kids practice important study skills. It also helps them develop a sense of responsibility and a work ethic that will benefit them beyond the classroom.

In addition to making sure your child knows that you see homework as a priority, you can help by creating an effective study environment. Any well-lit, comfortable, and quiet workspace with the necessary supplies will do. Avoiding distractions (like a TV in the background) and setting up a start and end time can also help.

A good rule of thumb for an effective homework and/or study period is roughly 10 minutes per elementary grade level. Fourth-graders, for example, should expect to have about 40 minutes of homework or studying each school night. If you find that it's often taking significantly longer than this guideline, talk with your child's teacher.

While your child does homework, be available to interpret assignment instructions, offer guidance, answer questions, and review the completed work. But resist the urge to provide the correct answers or complete the assignments yourself. Learning from mistakes is part of the process and you don't want to take this away from your child.

4. Send Your Child to School Ready to Learn

A nutritious breakfast fuels up kids and gets them ready for the day. In general, kids who eat breakfast have more energy and do better in school. Kids who eat breakfast also are less likely to be absent, and make fewer trips to the school nurse with stomach complaints related to hunger.

You can help boost your child's attention span, concentration, and memory by providing breakfast foods that are rich in whole grains, fiber, and protein, as well as low in added sugar. If your child is running late some mornings, send along fresh fruit, nuts, yogurt, or half a peanut butter and banana sandwich. Many schools provide nutritious breakfast options before the first bell.

Kids also need the right amount of sleep to be alert and ready to learn all day. Most school-age kids need 10 to 12 hours of sleep a night. Bedtime difficulties can arise at this age for a variety of reasons. Homework, sports, after-school activities, TVs, computers, and video games, as well as hectic family schedules, can contribute to kids not getting enough sleep.

Lack of sleep can cause irritable or hyperactive behavior and might make it hard for kids to pay attention in class. It's important to have a consistent bedtime routine, especially on school nights. Be sure to leave enough time before bed to allow your child to unwind before lights out and limit stimulating diversions like TV, video games, and Internet access.

p

5. Teach Organizational Skills

When kids are organized, they can stay focused instead of spending time hunting things down and getting sidetracked.

What does it mean to be organized at the elementary level? For schoolwork, it means having an assignment book and homework folder (many schools supply these) to keep track of homework and projects.

Check your child's assignment book and homework folder every school night so you're familiar with assignments and your child doesn't fall behind. Set up a bin for papers that you need to check or sign. Also, keep a special box or bin for completed and graded projects and toss papers that you don't need to keep.

Talk to your child about keeping his or her school desk orderly so papers that need to come home don't get lost. Teach your child how to use a calendar or personal planner to help stay organized.

It's also helpful to teach your child how to make a to-do list to help prioritize and get things done. It can be as simple as:

No one is born with great organizational skills - they need to be learned and practiced.

6. Teach Study Skills

Studying for a test can be scary for young kids, and many educators assume parents will help their kids during the grade-school years. Introducing your child to study skills now will pay off with good learning habits throughout life.

In elementary school, kids usually take end-of-unit tests in math, spelling, science, and social studies. Be sure to know when a test is scheduled so you can help your child study ahead of time rather than just the night before. You also might need to remind your child to bring home the right study materials, such as notes, study guides, or books.

Teach your child how to break down overall tasks into smaller, manageable chunks so preparing for a test isn't overwhelming. You also can introduce your child to tricks like mnemonic devices to help with recalling information. Remember that taking a break after a 45-minute study period is an important way to help kids process and remember information.

Your child probably will be introduced to standardized testing in elementary school. While students can't really study for standardized tests, some teachers provide practice tests to help ease students' worries.

In general, if studying and testing becomes a source of stress for your child, discuss the situation with the teacher or school counselor.

p

7. Know the Disciplinary Policies

Schools usually cite their disciplinary policies (sometimes called the student code of conduct) in student handbooks. The rules cover expectations, and consequences for not meeting the expectations, for things like student behavior, dress codes, use of electronic devices, and acceptable language.

The policies may include details about attendance, vandalism, cheating, fighting, and weapons. Many schools also have specific policies about bullying. It's helpful to know the school's definition of bullying, consequences for bullies, support for victims, and procedures for reporting bullying.

It's important for your child to know what's expected at school and that you'll support the school's consequences when expectations aren't met. It's easiest for students when school expectations match the ones at home, so kids see both environments as safe and caring places that work together as a team.

8. Get Involved

Whether kids are just starting kindergarten or entering their last year of elementary school, there are many good reasons for parents to volunteer at school. It's a great way for parents to show they're interested in their kids' education.

Many grade-schoolers like to see their parents at school or at school events. But follow your child's cues to find out how much interaction works for both of you. If your child seems uncomfortable with your presence at the school or with your involvement in an extracurricular activity, consider taking a more behind-the-scenes approach. Make it clear that you aren't there to spy - you're just trying to help out the school community.

Parents can get involved by:

being a classroom helper or homeroom parent

organizing and/or working at fundraising activities and other special events, like bake sales, car washes, and book fairs

chaperoning field trips

planning class parties

attending school board meetings

joining the school's parent-teacher group

working as a library assistant

reading a story to the class

giving a talk for career day

attending school concerts or plays

Check the school or teacher website to find volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule. Even giving a few hours during the school year can make a strong impression on your child.

p

9. Take Attendance Seriously

Sick kids should stay home from school if they have a fever, are nauseated, vomiting, or have diarrhea. Kids who lose their appetite, are clingy or lethargic, complain of pain, or who just don't seem to be acting "themselves" should also might benefit from a sick day.

Otherwise, it's important that kids arrive at school on time every day, because having to catch up with class work and homework can be stressful and interfere with learning.

If your child is missing a lot of school due to illness, make sure to check with the teacher about any work that needs to be completed. It's also a good idea to know the school's attendance policy.

Sometimes students want to stay home from school because of problems with classmates, assignments or grades, or even teachers. This can result in real symptoms, like headaches or stomachaches. If you think there's a problem at school, talk with your child - and then perhaps with the teacher - to find out more about what's causing the anxiety. The school counselor or school psychologist also might be able to help.

Also try to avoid late bedtimes, which can result in tardy and tired students. A consistent sleep schedule also can help students.

10. Make Time to Talk About School

It's usually easy to talk with elementary students about what's going on in class and the latest news at school. You probably know what books your child is reading and are familiar with the math being worked on. But parents can get busy and forget to ask the simple questions, which can have an effect on children's success at school.

Make time to talk with your child every day, so he or she knows that what goes on at school is important to you. When kids know parents are interested in their academic lives, they'll take school seriously as well.

Because communication is a two-way street, the way you talk and listen to your child can influence how well your child listens and responds. It's important to listen carefully, make eye contact, and avoid multitasking while you talk. Be sure to ask questions that go beyond "yes" or "no" answers.

Besides during family meals, good times to talk include car trips (though eye contact isn't needed here, of course), walking the dog, preparing meals, or standing in line at a store.

These early years of schooling are an important time for parents to be informed and supportive about their child's education and to set the stage for children to develop and grow as young learners.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Ways to Help Your Child Succeed in Elementary School

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Support from parents is key to helping kids do well academically. Here are 10 ways parents can put their kids on track to be successful students. Kids do better in school when parents are involved in their academic lives.

# data[].attributes.body
These are great ways to practice content at home!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Academic learning

Comprehensive video-based curriculum that covers math, science, reading, social studies and SAT prep from PreK through college in 40 languages.

Thousands of PreK through 5th grade worksheets and activities, designed by educators.

Short animated videos that explain difficult concepts in simple, kid-friendly terms. Topics include science, social studies, English, math, arts, music, health, and technology. (Also in Spanish.)

A tool that gives parents an accurate picture of their child's learning needs along with concrete actions and curated learning resources. (Also in Spanish.)

Media, activities and articles that support learning for kids ages 2-8.

Learning activities, games and lessons in social studies, geography, science, and more for kids in grades K-12.

K-5 math program with 400 hours of digital lessons with on-screen teachers and supportive remediation. Now available free.

Fee-based academic curriculum is currently offering ready-made learning plans for each grade level.

Meaningful civic learning through games, activities, a weekly planner, and tips.

Every week they offer a free new educational computer science activity, some online, some offline.

This spatial-temporal approach to math teaches K-8 math concepts visually through games and puzzles. (Note: This is free through December 30, 2020.)

Free, easy-to-use resources for families making the switch to learning from home including daily schedules, activities, and free lesson plans.

English Language Learners

Offers free resources, information, and activities for Spanish-speaking parents and educators of English Language learners (ELL).

Offering free articles and tips for parents to support their child's education and well-being.

Helping families build a daily habit of reading and support language and literacy development. Access free books in Spanish and English including narration in 43 different languages.

Essential needs

Provides emergency child care for health care workers and first responders; provides food for children without access to school meals; and does outreach to seniors who face social isolation. Ys are also providing holistic health and wellness support for people of all ages through virtual programming.

Works to ensure that kids are fed during this crisis, initiatives vary by community and align with local school food distribution solutions and/or other local programs.

Nationwide network of food banks, food pantries, and meal programs throughout the country that provide families with food and/or meals.

This government site features an interactive map of nearby food sites; each listing includes the hours of operation and contact information.

You can find government benefits related to unemployment assistance, healthcare, and food and nutrition. You can also use the Benefit Finder tool to see if you are eligible for additional benefits.

Provides funds to states and territories to provide families with financial assistance and support services. Programs may include child care assistance, job preparation, and work assistance. Note: Each state and territory decides the benefits it will provide. See if you qualify online.

Highly trained expert advocates are available 24/7 to talk confidentially with anyone in the U.S. who is experiencing domestic violence and/or seeking resources or information.

If you are a parent, student, teacher, or school leader who is struggling, you can connect with a crisis counselor by texting SCHOOL to 741741, any time of the day or night. .

Families can use this government site to update their Marketplace information if COVID-19 impacts their income or household; individuals and families may be eligible to change their plan if certain situations apply. Note: Check with your health insurance company to learn about their specific benefits and coverage policy during this crisis.

Use their State by State Resource Map to find local resources for child care, health and social services, financial assistance, support for children with special needs, and more.

(Helpful article in Forbes published March 25, 2020)

(Helpful guide by Housing Finance Policy Center, Urban Institute published on June 2020)

Stay active

Offers free movement, yoga, and mindfulness videos, downloadable curricular activities, and off-screen home activities. These resources span a variety of abilities, interests, ages, and subjects.

Foster youth & homelessness

Offering information and possible emergency assistance and devices to California foster youth and students experiencing homelessness. If you are a foster youth in need or know a young person in need, you can reach them at support@ifoster.org.

This guide, created for people working in capacities that serve foster and homeless youth, offers tips for supporting students during the COVID-19 crisis.

Forced isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic means that kids and teens in foster care are experiencing even greater loss and disconnection. Here's a guide for how educators, social workers and other adults who serve kids in foster care can help.

Helping foster and homeless youth with housing, groceries, and utilities. (Note: Must first fill out form to identify your specifics needs)

(March 16, 2020)

(Updated on June 25,2020)

Parenting guidance

Articles, family activities, dinnertime questions, and tips designed to help working parents and caregivers navigate family life and remote learning in the era of COVID-19. Offered in English and Spanish.
Bite-sized tips and tools to help you and your kids endure and thrive in this time of uncertainty.

Tips, activities and resources to help families make the most of the days when schools are closed.

Facebook Live broadcast every weekday at 9am EST (English), 9am PST (Spanish) with practical advice and tips from experts and a community of parents from coast to coast.

Free monthly learning kits with six mini-tools that can be used together for a cohesive experience, or mixed-and-matched to complement school curriculum, offered in English and Spanish for kids in grades 4-9.

Media recommendations

Resource hub for quality media picks and at-home learning opportunities for kids of all ages.

Reading & books

Videos featuring celebrated actors reading children's books with animated illustrations.

Grade-based activities, games, printables and podcasts to support in reading and writing for K-12th grade.

Library of 35,000 illustrated and chapter books for children 12 and under, including audio books and "read to me" books highlighting text karaoke-style.

Grade-based day-by-day projects to keep kids learning PreK-9th grade.

Social emotional support

Evidence-based articles, videos, and podcasts to create a more compassionate world.

Digital media to help families navigate challenging times and support children who need specialized care.

Support for children with disabilities

Information and online tools to help kids and adults with learning and attention differences.

Online library of over 800,000 titles to support reading for students with dyslexia, blindness, cerebral palsy, and other barriers.

Resource for educators offers list of apps for students with special needs.

Digital classroom designed to support struggling readers.

Resource guide to help parents, educators, and school leaders develop learning plans for students with disabilities.

Advice for parents and caregivers of children ages 0-3 who were receiving early intervention services by a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and whose services have been interrupted.

Offers free daily lessons for students with visual impairments. Qualified teachers from around the country present a range of lessons. You can call in via Zoom or connect via the Internet.

Offers free access to their entire cloud platform of apps to support students who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, and/or have reading difficulties. They also have resources for teachers.

7 support strategies designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with autism during this time.

Free digital worksheets designed for students with autism.

Research-based math games that teach problem-solving for grades 6 and up. Designed to be accessible for students with and without learning disabilities.

Addressing the risk of COVID-19 in schools while protecting the civil rights of students from the Department of Education (March 16th, 2020).

TV, podcasts & YouTube

(March 2020 article in MommyPoppins)

A 10-week read-aloud weekly video series for kids ages 2-6 with Dolly Parton.

(March 2020 article in Thomas B. Fordham Institute)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Free at-home learning resources for parents

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We rounded up the best learning resources from the web to help you support your child during school closures.