By now you probably have lots of recommendations for apps, education resources and podcasts. But more help is on the way! Some talented and amazing musicians, artists, scientists and authors are planning regular online events to entertain and educate our kids during this hard time. Featuring local faves and national names, here are some special online concerts, storytimes and more to put on your calendar.
If you know of other great online events, email info@pdxparent.com and we’ll add them to the list.
Portland kindie musicians like Red Yarn, Mo Phillips, Talullah’s Daddy, Micah and Me, Mr. Ben and Aaron Nigel Smith have hosted or are planning Facebook and Instagram Live events. Check their social media accounts for the latest dates and times, and videos of past performances.
Oliver Jeffers, author of The Day the Crayons Quit, will read one of his books every weekday and talk about it at 11 am.
Story Pirates are launching a daily radio show, Story Pirates Radio, featuring fan-favorite songs, play-at-home games, hilarious bits, and listener call-in kid interviews. They will also post Story Sparks, live-streamed creative writing lessons.
Author Mac Barnett is reading his picture books on Instagram Live daily at noon. You know Barnett from Sam & Dave Dig a Hole, Extra Yarn, Leo: A Ghost Story, and the Kid Spy books, the Brixton Brothers mysteries and the Terrible Two series.
The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is hosting a Facebook Live every day at 7 am for Shark Story Hour. They’ll read a different shark-themed book followed by a shark question and answer session.
Mo Willems will share a new video from his studio every day at 10 am through his Lunch Doodles series. Draw, doodle and explore new ways of writing with this beloved children’s author and illustrator. As you can imagine, the site has been experiencing a huge amount of traffic, but you also can tune in and watch the videos later.
Portland’s Acting for Kids and Teens is offering free online classes each weekday. The week of March 15 includes acting and improv sessions—but also “Learn to Scramble an Egg and Make Toast.” Space is limited; registration required.
Grammy winners Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band are putting on a sofa mini-concert every day at 10 am.
Rose City Book Pub will host an online storytime every weekday at 2 pm. First up, Ms. Button from Glencoe Elementary will read from Fantastic Mr. Fox and then share mathtivities you can do at home.
- Free Cultural Passes from Portland-Area Libraries - January 29, 2024
- Playgrounds with a View - May 28, 2023
- Ultimate Portland-Area Playground Guide - September 30, 2022
