Local school boards offer help with keeping kids learning at home

March break is officially over but students won't return to school until April 6 at the earliest.

Earlier this month, the province announced schools would be closed to help "flatten the curve" of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the next two weeks, there are several efforts to help children learn at home, including learning plans put together by local school boards.

The WaterlooCatholic District School Board has launched STEAMDays, which will have a new activity each day, one each for elementary and secondary students. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

The site "will provide a convenient platform for parents and educators alike to share ideas, resources and fun ways to keep the learning process going," the board said in a release.

• Visit the STEAMDAYS website

Waterloo Region District School Board says more details for learning at home will be posted to itsWRDSB@Home website.

• Visit the WRDSB@Home webiste

The Upper Grand District School Board is offering online learning through the UG2GO app.

The board noted the information on UG2GO is "intended to supplement concepts students would normally learn at school. This resource is not intended to replace regular classroom instruction."

• More details are on the UGDSB website

Province launches Learn at Home

Scholastic Canada has launched a 20-day learning program based on grades so students can read along with books, watch a video and do a craft or activity.

• Visit the Scholastic Canada website

On Friday, the province announced Learn At Home, an online portal with educational resources.

Premier Doug Ford said the website "doesn't replace school" but does offer some opportunities for students to keep learning.

Education Minister Stephen Lecce said the website will help prevent "learning loss" during "uncertain times."

• Visit the Learn at Home website

CBC resources

TV shows are also streaming for free on CBC Gem, including French-language cartoons suitable for students in French-language schools or French immersion.

CBC Parents also hassections dedicated for play and learning.

As well, CBC Kids offers many short videos to teach children about a variety of subjects including topical ones such ashow to become a hand-washingartist.