Even though we’re not reading together in-person this year, there are plenty of ways we can all continue to have fun with books in our lives! Whether you’re home with kids, working from home or otherwise, we think everyone can use some fun in their lives and the reminder that enjoyment of books can take place anytime, anywhere.

We’ll use this page as a place to collect useful and uplifting resources. If you have ideas or resources to add, please email them to SMART@SMARTReading.org. Thank you!

Educational Resources for Families:

In the face of interrupted instruction, a number of companies, organizations, and individuals are offering free support and resources for students families and teachers. Here are a few:

• Scholastic’s Learn at Home resources: Scholastic, a long-time partner of SMART Reading, has created a free resource that provides students with about 20 days’ worth of learning exercises.
• The Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators has created a digital directory of resources from their members, including activities, book readings, workshops, podcasts, and more.
• Here are some additional free resources for students and families:
  • • Highlights Kids
    • Khan Academy
    • National Geographic Kids
    • Oxford Owl for Home
    • PBS Kids
    • ReadWorks.org
    • TIME for Kids
    • Wonderopolis

Virtual Storytimes:

While we’re not able to share one-on-one reading time with our SMART Reading students, there are great read-alouds of many of our favorite books available online:

• Storyline Online features celebrated actors reading children’s books
• Audible is offering free streaming for a wide variety of kid’s books
• We Are Teachers has compiled a list of authors streaming readings of their books
• Mrs. P is an online resource featuring read-alouds of classic children’s stories
• While not technically storytime, The New York Times compiled a list of kid-friendly podcasts

Reading Lists:

With the slower pace of life that comes with social distancing, we have more time for one of our favorite hobbies: READING! Here are some book lists for you to get inspired:

• Powell’s staff share what’s on their reading lists for 2021
• The New York Times list of the 100 notable books of 2020 
• Well-known authors offer recommendations of the books that bring them comfort
• NPR’s 2020 Book Concierge 
• And of course, check out your local library for book recommendations, e-books, and other digital resources!

Talking with Kids about COVID-19

• The Child Mind Institute shares tips on how to talk with kids about the coronavirus. 
• Portland-based publisher A Kids Book About has created a free downloadable e-book called A Kids Book About COVID-19. Download it here.

Just for Fun:

• Doodle with Mo Willems: SMART Reading students love books by bestselling author, Mo Willems. To help provide connection while we’re all in varying degrees of isolation, Mo hosted lunchtime doodle sessions where you can join in some drawing fun and submit your creations to The Kennedy Center.
• Our friends at LitWorld (the founders of World Read Aloud Day) posted this resource for making a heart map — it’s a nice exercise to do with kids, or even just for adults! You can post yours online and use the hashtag #globalheartmap to be part of the conversation worldwide.

Other:

• Slumber Yard has some quick tips for creating a healthy back-to-school sleep routine.