Sharing Resources During the COVID-19 Outbreak
At the IDEALS Institute, we’re educational, health, social service, and public policy professionals, but we’re also parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents who often find ourselves just as overwhelmed as everyone else in the face of juggling our life and work roles.
On this site we are sharing a number of resources that our staff members have found personally useful in supporting children, families, and caregivers during this challenging time.
Please note that these resources are the personal crowdsourced recommendations of our professional staff.
Inclusion in the list does not imply endorsement by Johns Hopkins University or the IDEALS Institute.
Mental Health/Emotional Support
Now more than ever, our mental health is just as important as our physical health, especially as we are practicing social distancing.
Educational
Educational institutions and organizations from around the country have come together to offer free support and classes for all ages during this challenging time.
Individuals with Special Needs
Individuals with special health care needs and disabilities need additional support and care during COVID-19. Find tips and strategies for families, caregivers and educators.
Books
Just because the libraries are closed, we still have access to books in digital and audio formats. Find resources to download books, take advantage of free library resources and more here.
Senior Adults
Senior adults are considered one of the most vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 crisis. Resources are available to ensure that seniors are protected and remain safe.
Entertainment
Just because you can’t leave the house doesn’t mean that entertainment stops. There are opportunities to experience Broadway, the Metropolitan Opera, Disney and more.
Fitness
Many health and fitness centers are offering free access to live streamed workouts and yoga during the COVID-19 outbreak. Websites are also available to help children move throughout the day.
Arts and Crafts
For many, art helps to soothe the soul. If you haven’t had the chance to dabble in art or learn a new skill, now is a great time! Plenty of resources are also available for children and teens.
Music
Just like art, music also helps to relieve stress and anxiety. Have you always wanted to learn an instrument? You can learn guitar in 21 days. Musicians are also offering free access to their online concerts.
Service Projects
Even if you are stuck at home, opportunities are available to give back to others. Our suggested projects are all family-friendly activities.
Free Services
As we are dealing with a U.S.-wide crisis, many companies are offering free services. As the list continues to grow during this uncertain time, keep checking back to see how companies are helping us lessen the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Virtual Tours
Virtual field trips are a great way to expose kids to new places all from the comfort of home. In this age of technology, so many museums, zoos and aquariums have set up virtual tours and webcams of their facilities.