Updated! Found online: Virtual ways for kids to learn, stay engaged, have fun

Three people with toy insect

On this page we’re sharing what other organizations and people around the world are offering virtually, including lessons, classes, projects, and tours. We’ll update this page as we find out about new offerings, so please let us know if there’s something we should add. And remember: Your digital library has tons of resources to help … Read more

Early learning tips for kids, infants, April 2020

Early Bird Readers: Early learning tips for kids, infants up to age 5 #EarlyLearners

Hello, Early Bird Readers! Miss Jenny and Miss Shelley share some favorite tunes and songs. Can you sing your ABCs to new and different tunes? It’s really hard, but helps kids master their letters. Let us know what songs you’ve used successfully! See Melissa Z-D’s handout (PDF) » Watch Touch the Brightest Star on YouTube … Read more

Elearning resources for parents & teachers

Parent and child looking at tablet

Here’s a list of a wide range of resources for parents and teachers, many who are helping young kids with elearning during this time. Thanks to Niles-Maine District Library‘s Preschool and Daycare Liaison April Lee for compiling this list! Kodo Kids: Ten free online workshops (2-3 hours each) on topics such as: Infant Toddler Engineering, … Read more

Neighborhood window walks: Safe, physically distanced family fun

Toys in the Main Library window

We’ve been watching, listening to, and celebrating our community’s efforts to safely socially connect while properly physically distancing. Local grassroots efforts and others we’ve seen include: Singing from our porches and balconies » Clapping in unison to celebrate the commitment of all our first responders » Family-friendly neighborhood walks, when a block or community’s residents … Read more

Virtual tutoring & academic support for all ages

Person using laptop computer

Oak Park cardholders now have access to on-demand virtual learning with a new library resource called Brainfuse HelpNow. HelpNow offers real-time help in skill building and test preparation. Learners of all ages can connect directly online with live, vetted tutors every day from 2 to 11 pm. Interactive tutoring & more With Brainfuse HelpNow, you … Read more

Unlimited access to TumbleBooks through August

Person on couch with tablet

Read as many books as you want, when you want, and on any device with TumbleBooks, through August 31. You don’t have to check anything out, place any holds, or take up space on your device with bulky downloads. Books are available instantly. Oak Park Public Library cardholders currently have access to the TumbleBookLibrary for … Read more

Creating calm for children in uncertain times

Caregiver and child playing with toy train

Reposted from Thrive Counseling Center and Senior Therapists Cicely Johnson, Kristen Keleher, and Angie Kauffmann  As the world spins in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, our daily lives have altered in previously unimaginable ways. Cancelled events and flights, remote learning in schools, and closed businesses are now the norm. If we’re feeling anxious, it’s likely our children are, too. How can we minimize their anxiety amid such uncertainty?   At Thrive Counseling … Read more

Talking with young kids about coronavirus

CDC Clean Hands Campaign

Things are changing so quickly. How do we engage with our young ones about everything that’s going on? Here are a few resources to help get you started. We’re adding new content virtual content daily on this page and pulled together a quick roundup of more virtual ways for kids to learn, stay engaged, and … Read more

Host a kids’ virtual learning day

Family using tablets

Turn any day into a virtual learning day with these fun, educational remote learning resources for kids. Log in with your Oak Park library card and PIN. History comes to life African-American History Online: Covering five centuries, log in for a fresh way to find the full spectrum of African-American history and culture. American Indian … Read more

Early learning tips for kids, infants, December 2019

Early Bird Readers: Early learning tips for kids, infants up to age 5 #EarlyLearners

Hello, Early Bird Readers! Miss Jenny and Miss Shelley share some favorite ways to share sounds with books and songs, and inspire conversations about navigating hard transitions, too. About Early Bird Readers Early Bird Readers is a digital early learning program to support parents, caregivers, and teachers. It is based on the Very Ready Reading … Read more