The Oakland Press

Kids

- Grace Derocha is a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator and certified health coach at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more health tips, visit AHealthier­Michigan.org.

a different time or place and provide a good distractio­n from the current reality. Research age appropriat­e titles that can be challengin­g, educationa­l and entertaini­ng.

• Science: The kitchen can be used to explore science concepts. When cooking, discuss the different stages of matter and the types of chemical reactions that occur. Go on nature walks to identify specific birds, trees and plants. Practice earth science by having kids help in the garden.

• Social Studies: Learn about different cultures by making them immersive. Find kid-friendly movies set in various locations and discuss different countries and cultures. Try pronouncin­g words in their official language or recreating a native recipe.

Educationa­l apps and online programs

Parents should start with the resources provided by their child’s school or teacher. They can then utilize online educationa­l programs to complement those lessons. For core subjects and physical activities try:

• ABC Mouse abcmouse. com/abt/homepage

• BrainPOP brainpop.com

• Carmen Sandiego carmensand­iego.com/resources

• Freckle freckle.com

• Go Noodle gonoodle. com

• IXL ixl.com

• Khan Academy khanacadem­y.org

• TRAILS trailstowe­llness.org/materials/resources/covid-19-resources

Parents can find a compiled list of teacher-approved online resources at AHealthier­Michigan.org.

Home learning reminders

It’s not necessary for parents to replicate a school day. Aim for two to three hours of educationa­l activities. On average, elementary-age children can focus 20 to 30 minutes per subject. Older students can concentrat­e for 30 to 45 minutes. The goal is to create a solid schedule and curriculum. But providing love and consistenc­y should be the main priority.

 ?? GONOODLE.COM ?? Go Noodle offers games and high-energy educationa­l activities for kids through online access.
GONOODLE.COM Go Noodle offers games and high-energy educationa­l activities for kids through online access.

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