“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” ― Fred Rogers
I have seen so many helpers stepping up during this pandemic but, as a children’s librarian, I’ve been so uplifted by the response from many of our favorite children’s authors and their publishers who have taken steps to make sharing books online a possibility.
School Library Journal recently published an article outlining many of the new provisions offered by authors and publishers if you’re an educator interested in navigating virtual story times or book sharing online.
The Seattle Public launched virtual story times this past Tuesday, and it was a rousing success! Our very own Amanda played the ukulele, shared a wonderful story, and taught us some new songs. Check out the live recording!
Many authors are even sharing their work in unique ways online for kids and families to enjoy from home. So many kids share an immense love for Mo Willems’ beloved picture books, and now they can join the master of picture book humor during Lunch Doodles with Mo Willems. So grab your crayons, colored pencils, or markers and join him every weekday at 10:00 a.m. PT for doodles, activities, and more! Be sure to check out the downloading activity sheets available as well.
Dave Pilkey’s Captain Underpants series has hooked so many young readers, and now he is reaching out to connect with kids at home. Dave Pilkey at Home launches this week and will continue for 8 more weeks. Kids can access book trailers, coloring activities, story starters, and drawing instructions with just a few clicks from home!
Perhaps most exciting for me is knowing I will once again be able to listen to the voice of Levar Burton read aloud stories again starting this Friday, April 3rd! See the announcement on Twitter!
For more ways to connect with your favorite children’s authors, check out this comprehensive list provided by We Are Teachers:
The Big List of Children’s Authors Doing Online Read-Alouds & Activities
~ posted by Erin M.
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