We, at the CAD 5-19 team have sourced some online learning resources for children with SEND at home during COVID19.
We have provided a sample of specific links we feel will provide support for pupils with additional needs. These are not the only resources available, however we have tried to avoid websites providing long lists of signposting to other websites which can become overwhelming.
Some of these websites have a specific SEND focus or area whilst others have activities grouped by age. For those with age recommendations please consider which activities are most appropriate for your children based on their developmental level rather than age.
Please note these resources included are there as a guide, not all resources will be appropriate for all children so please preview websites and resources to share those that are appropriate for your children. Some websites may require a log in but most are free for the period during which schools are closed (please check individual websites).
Most importantly, please remember that although formal lessons like English and maths are important they are not the only way to learn! It is equally, if not more important at this time to spend time with your children and young people; sharing life skills around the home, maintaining physical activities, having fun and allowing for relaxation time (for parents and teachers as well as children!).
Resources to support SEND learners – Part 4
Online learning activities
Dear SENCOs, parents/ carers,
This update follows previous resource support published on 31st March, 16th April and 30th April; all of which can be found on the Havering local offer pages. Please find below a selection of further online activities to support learning and physical and emotional wellbeing. Some resources to support parents including home learning support lines and advice leaflets have also been included.
Please note these resources included are there as a guide, not all resources will be appropriate for all children so please preview websites and resources to share those that are appropriate for your children. Some websites may require a log in but most are free for the period during which schools are closed (please check individual websites).
Most importantly, please remember that although formal lessons like English and maths are important they are not the only way to learn! It is equally, if not more important at this time to spend time with your children and young people; sharing life skills around the home, maintaining physical activities, having fun and allowing for relaxation time (for parents and teachers as well as children!).
Havering Local Offer SEND resources page
Best wishes
CAD 5-19 Support Team
Learning activities
BeReady – Free curriculum Y7-10 online lessons created by teachers via YouTube videos. Resources for a variety of subjects including English, maths, science, R.E., languages and more. Requires sign up to access but no fee.
https://bereadygroup.org/free-curriculum/
Century - Century is offering free access to schools and families to their Maths, English and Science courses. It works by using Artificial Intelligence, neuroscience and the latest in educational research to dynamically adapt learning for individual students as they progress through the course.
BBC Teach - free curriculum-mapped videos, arranged by age-group and subject. https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach
Crick Software – Free access to Clicker (primary focus) and DocsPlus (secondary focus) for 4 weeks. Resources are available across a wide range of topics and support learners to independently tackle curriculum writing tasks. There are online training resources available and video guides to support use.
https://www.cricksoft.com/uk/docsplus/docsplus-at-home/sign-up
Call Scotland – easy read posters including iPad and Android apps available to support a range of needs including communication and learning needs.
https://www.callscotland.org.uk/downloads/posters-and-leaflets/
SENict Resources – Online activities for switch, touch-screen, mouse and eye gaze.
https://www.ianbean.co.uk/senict-members-resource-portal/
BBC Bitesize Dance mat typing – Simple touch typing games.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zf2f9j6/articles/z3c6tfr
Doorway Online - A collection of free and highly accessible educational games that learners will find easy to use independently. Each activity has a range of accessibility and difficulty options. Activities include phonics, matching games and a touch typing program.
https://www.doorwayonline.org.uk/
ICT games - Free to play online educational games aimed at children between 5 and 8 years old. The games are linked to the UK KS 1 and 2 curricula.
https://www.ictgames.com/mobilePage/index.html
Dundee science centre – Great DIY experiments. There are also lessons, videos and activities in their home learning portal although some are more complex than others.
https://www.dundeesciencecentre.org.uk/learning-resources
Theatre of Science – free online interactive science lessons for 4-11 year olds including mini experiments using household objects.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUjgFd6ywbASaGxi5ZhW0NA
Dyson Engineering challenge cards – Simple engineering and science challenges that can be done at home, some will need adult supervision!
Pobble 365 – Images with linked story starters, questions and sentence challenges to support and motivate story writing.
https://medium.com/pobble/why-pobble-365-is-a-must-have-for-teachers-ccf1f0a034be
https://www.pobble365.com/?utm_source=Medium&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=pobble365_musthave_blog
Teach your monster to read – Free online reading programme to complement synthetics phonics programmes used in schools from letters and sounds to reading full sentences. Activities are game based and allow pupils to win new items to put on their own monster character.
https://www.teachyourmonstertoread.com/
Communication and Interaction
Speechlink Parent Portal – Free access to any parent (schools do not need to have a subscription). Activities and games from Speechlink packages along with developmental charts to help parents decide which activities are suitable for their child. Activities for early years, primary and secondary learners are included.
https://speechandlanguage.info/resources/perch/content/covidclassrulesa3posterv2.pdf
Social, Emotional and Physical Wellbeing
While we can’t hug – story to show children what they can do to great their friends and show others that they care while they can’t give them a hug.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PnnFrPaRgY&feature=youtu.be
Stuck inside - A book about Coronavirus written for young children to help them understand what is going on and why it’s important to stay indoors.
https://www.stuckinsidebook.com/
Dave the dog is worried about Coronavirus – story explaining the main facts about Coronavirus.
LGFL – Editable social stories including; ‘What is Coronavirus?’, ‘Helping to stop Coronavirus’, ‘School is closing’ and ‘School is opening’.
https://www.lgfl.net/covid19socialstories
Everybody worries – A bright and friendly picture book, helping children learn that it’s okay to worry about coronavirus. The ebook has a supportive tone, and provides ideas for dealing with coronavirus in a positive way.
https://home.oxfordowl.co.uk/books/jon-burgerman-everybody-worries-free-ebook/
Havering Mind – links to online communities, online resources and advice for supporting mental health.
https://www.haveringmind.org.uk/coronavirus-support/
CAMHS resources - A collection of downloadable self-help guides. Some are aimed at adults but the ideas and suggestions in them can still be relevant for young people and parents. Includes a coronavirus dedicated page with workbooks around worry and anxiety.
https://www.camhs-resources.co.uk/downloads
https://www.camhs-resources.co.uk/coronavirus
Anna Freud Centre – Helping children and young people to manage anxiety
https://www.annafreud.org/media/11465/helping-cyp-manage-anxiety-apr2020-v3.pdf
Every life matters - Wellbeing and mental health during Covid-19: A guide to looking after yourself and others. Includes advice and strategies around corona anxiety, listening tips and supporting young people.
ELSA – bereavement resources included recommended books, website and free bereavement activity support pack.
https://www.elsa-support.co.uk/bereavement-resources-for-parents-and-school-staff/
Philosophy for Children – A variety of resources to promote and develop discussion including activities relating to lockdown experiences.
https://archive.sapere.org.uk/Default.aspx?tabid=289
Mindup – Mindfulness lessons and activities for children and families.
https://mindup.org.uk/mindup-activities/
Sensory house and garden – activity where learners can click to choose the design of certain rooms including a sensory room, music room and garden.
http://www.sensoryworld.org/sensory_house.html
Youth Sports Trust 60 second challenges – challenges for pupils to do individually or as a class, many do not require any equipment.
https://www.youthsporttrust.org/60-second-physical-activity-challenges
British Blind Sport and Blind Alive - A selection of audio described workouts and fitness classes suitable for visually impaired learners.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSJCXbR__C7IztG4us-8Hjw
LOOK Active! – Fitness videos for visually impaired learners.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVSyGnbH4Te9PUrOM18RsolFAwuonbCrE
Ella’s wheelchair workouts – Wheelchair friendly fitness videos
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPSgdS1UDK6Hcv0ZneodW0A
Gympanzees – Physical activities for children of all abilities. Categories include wheelchair users, pupils with learning difficulties, behavioural difficulties and sensory difficulties.
https://www.gympanzees.org/our-home/online-resource-hub
Gympanzees also host free to attend video webinars which are available to view afterwards. They are run by specialist paediatric therapists and include understanding sensory processing, complex feeding difficulties and attention and engagement among others. 2-3 new sessions are added weekly.
https://www.gympanzees.org/our-home/zoom-sessions
Sensory
Paths to literacy - CVI videos – Adaptations of familiar songs and stories for children with cortical visual impairments.
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resources/cvi-friendly-videos
RNIB Messy and Muddy – a guide to outdoor play for learners with a visual impairment.
https://www.rnib.org.uk/messy-and-muddy-guide-outdoor-play-children-vision-impairment
RNIB Reading services – Solutions to enable people with sight loss to read. Books and newspapers are free to access and there is an easy read app available.
https://www.rnib.org.uk/reading-services
Parent support
Parenting Chaos – A nice, straightforward article providing transition strategies to support autistic learners with activity, location or routine changes.
https://parentingchaos.com/transition-strategies/
HES Booklet – Coping with your child’s behaviour during the Coronavirus lockdown – For parents, but also useful for staff including setting boundaries, play and using positive language.
Starline - a national home learning helpline offering expert information and advice to parents and carers around home learning strategies, behaviour & wellbeing, curriculum subjects and SEND.
Telephone number: 0330 313 9162
Contact – booklet providing advice on helping children sleep, focused around children with additional needs.
https://contact.org.uk/media/1183103/helping_your_child_sleep.pdf
Contact 1:1 listening ear service - offer 1-1 confidential phone appointments with our family support advisers for parents looking for a listening ear, reassurance and practical and emotional support at this time.
https://contact.org.uk/news-and-blogs/introducing-our-new-1-1-listening-ear-service-(1)/
Disclaimer
This list of resources is not exhaustive and there are many other training materials, activities and advice available to schools. Please note that you use all content at your own risk. Resources made available through the lists are subject to third party terms and conditions and copyright law. Access to resources is in most cases free of charge, but it is your responsibility to check whether you have to pay to view and/or copy specific content contained within the resources.
Communication
Speech Link: Parent support site for children with speech, language and communication needs. Activities and games to help children hear the difference between speech sounds and identify different sounds. New games and activities added regularly along with speech and language therapy podcasts. https://speechandlanguage.info/parents
WIDGIT online (Code: WIDGIT30): Templates to create symbol resources such as visual timetables, schedules, flashcards, word mats, bingo cards and worksheets (templates found in the create a grid option. Also offers speech to text option (only in Google Chrome). Examples and tutorials on website – contact team if additional support required. www.widgitonline.com/offer
British Sign Language: Online BSL course – pay what you can - a minimum of £3 admin fee for an accredited CPD course. https://www.british-sign.co.uk/learn-online-british-sign-language-course/
Guide prices
£3 – if you are a full time student or finding things tight right now.
£10 – If you are a Key Worker or playing an important role during the current crisis.
£15 – this is how much it costs us to provide each enrollment.
£25 – this is the normal cost of enrollment and enables us to continue developing resources.
£35+ – this will help fund someone else's enrollment.
Makaton: Free songs, information and activity sheets accompanied by Makaton symbols.The ‘your home’ pack is free which may be especially helpful. https://www.makaton.org/shop/shopping/browseStore/
Free-resources Coronavirus explanation video with Makaton signing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OS8vbjr2-Q&feature=youtu.be
AAC language lab: Free resources and activities aimed at pupils who use an AAC device for communication. Also offering a 2 month free subscription. https://www.aaclanguagelab.co.uk/
Cognition and Learning
Phonics Play:
Username: March 20 Password: home
Lots of interactive games and printable activities to support with phonics, reading and spelling. https://www.phonicsplay.co.uk/#
Nessy: Nessy and GoHairy YouTube channels with songs and videos to support reading and spelling strategies.
https://www.youtube.com/user/greenandfriendly/videos?disable_polymer=1 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBKY9k6NkPEOHFO2f6-y2Mw
The Maths Factor: created by Carol Vorderman contains teaching videos, practice activities and games for various maths topics at all levels. https://www.themathsfactor.com/
World of David Walliams: Quizzes and activities as well as resource packs that can be used with the David Walliams books. Activities range from wordsearches and finding items in a picture to writing letters and creating characters. ‘The slightly annoying elephant’ and ‘The first hippo on the moon’ may be more appropriate to start with. There is also a free audio story to listen to every day at 11am. https://www.worldofdavidwalliams.com/activities/ (activities and tasks related to the books) https://www.worldofdavidwalliams.com/elevenses/ (free audio story)
Twinkl: Wide range of resources including daily plans, visual timetables, worksheets and activities. Includes a specific SEND section and SEND home learning pack. Lots of resources available for free but also free premium membership available with the offer code below. https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/covid19-school-closures https://www.twinkl.co.uk/offer Offer code: UKTWINKLHELPS
National marine aquarium: Live feeds and clips of the aquarium in addition to live feeding sessions and talks. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCezJorsyMOcWVeK2N2FAaRg
Audible – free audio stories whilst schools are closed, including titles across six languages. https://stories.audible.com/start-listen
Newsround: news updates and stories aimed at school aged viewers, includes information on Coronavirus. https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround Inclusive Teach: Lots of printable resources across a wide range of subject areas and ages. https://inclusiveteach.com/free-printable-sen-teaching-resources/
Clicker: Software programme providing reading and writing support. https://www.cricksoft.com/uk/clicker/clicker-at-home
Social, Emotional and Physical Wellbeing
Education support - Mental Health and wellbeing support also provides a section on financial assistance and grants for education staff including voluntary staff, support staff and teaching students.
Free, confidential helpline 24/7 with trained counsellors. Support for staff in primary, secondary, further or higher education in England, Wales and Scotland.
UK-wide: 08000 562 561
Txt: 07909 341229
https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/helping-you/coronavirus-supporting-education-staff
Havering Empowering Parents Empowering Communities (EPEC) Hub and the National EPEC Team – social media links to provide EPEC strategies to parents to support with practical advice, videos article and activities. Focus on parents taking care of their own wellbeing as well as that of their children.
- Centre for Parent and Child Support CPCS Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Centre-for-Parent-and-Child-Support-CPCS-100276281421476/
- Centre for Parent and Child Support CPCS Instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/cpcs_official/?hl=en
- Centre for Parent and Child Support CPCS YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxjePVqgl9HUpGqd81wDmvg
- Havering EPEC Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/HaveringEPEC/
Dr Dog eBook – story to support sharing information around Covid-19 with young children and those who would benefit from simple, clear information.
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/dr-dog-ebook-eyfs-t-p-843
Anna Freud Centre – Guide to supporting vulnerable pupils and students during periods of disruption
British Psychological Society – Advice for talking to children about Coronavirus
Twinkl Wellbeing hub – resources and links supporting mental health and wellbeing. Aimed in particular at teachers, parents and other adults working with children; includes tips to look after their own mental health as well as those they support.
EEF - A set of resources for parents to support effective home learning. These are all based on the evidence-based recommendations in the EEF’s guidance reports. These resources support parents to identify learning opportunities in everyday routines and build them into your home life. There is also guidance for supporting your child’s behavioural, emotional and social needs at this time.
Council for Disabled Children – link to information pack to support parent carers of children with an ASD or LD during this time. Information pack created by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. Contains information on structure and routine, wellbeing, regulation, sleep, physical activities and managing behaviour. Please note contact details are not for local services.
Philosophy for children – some ideas for supporting philosophical thinking, speaking and listening and sharing of ideas and opinions. Includes a link to a Covid-19 resource to discuss aspects of what is happening currently (best used with older students).
https://archive.sapere.org.uk/Default.aspx?tabid=289
Time capsule resource pack – This resource requires an upgraded Twinkl membership available from £4.49 per month and can be cancelled at any time.
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/coronavirus-time-capsule-resource-pack-t-tp-2549605
Mentally Healthy Schools – Resources page can be filtered by type, key stage and resource type. Includes links for anxiety, bereavement, challenging behaviours and SEND areas.
https://www.mentallyhealthyschools.org.uk/resources/
Ambitious about autism – Guidance with tips to manage health anxiety and editable planners and timetables
https://www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/what-we-do/awareness/world-autism-awareness-month
Child bereavement UK – Videos and advice sheets around supporting children emotionally due to the impact of Coronavirus including not being able to visit family and supporting bereavement.
https://www.childbereavementuk.org/Pages/Category/coronavirus
Winston’s wish – supporting children through Coronavirus including bereavement and anxiety
https://www.winstonswish.org/coronavirus/
BBC own it Website and App - Advice around safe and positive use of social media and support to manage well-being online. The app can also track feelings, suggest advice sources, learn more about themselves and get advice as they type helping young people reflect on what they are sending to others.
NAS spectrum live - the coronavirus series. A series of videos with Q&A sessions to be screened.
https://www.autism.org.uk/about/spectrum-live.aspx
Episode 1- 'Coronavirus, health and wellbeing'
Wednesday the 29th of April at 7:30pm
Episode 2- 'Your care and support'
Wednesday the 6th of May at 7:30pm
Episode 3- 'Supporting children and young people'
Wednesday the 13th of May at 7:30pm
Episode 4- TBC due to the changing situation
imoves - Free access to Active Schools package for anyone working with primary school children. Over 1,200 lessons for primary schools (4- to 11-year olds) with a focus on active learning. Includes a full PE curriculum, active learning for other curriculum areas and resources for mental health and wellbeing. Includes videos for pupils to follow, lesson plans, powerpoints and teaching resources.
There is also a simplified platform for parents, ‘imovement’ with lots of videos and wellbeing activities. Parents can register on the link below.
https://imoves.com/imovement-signup
ELSA: Ideas for activities and social stories designed to provide support for social and emotional wellbeing.
https://www.elsa-support.co.uk/category/free-resources/coronavirus-support/
Managing Anxiety article https://www.specialneedsjungle.com/calming-coronavirus-anxiety-children-everyoneelse/
Go Noodle: great interactive videos – guided dance, mindfulness, how to …, and motor skills activities. YouTube videos page also included. https://www.gonoodle.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2YBT7HYqCbbvzu3kKZ3wnw
National Autistic Society: Resources for autistic people and their families including social stories, advice sheets and activities. https://www.autism.org.uk/services/helplines/coronavirus/resources.aspx
Cosmic kids yoga: yoga set to stories and imaginative journeys. https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga
Child line calm zone: Breathing exercises, yoga videos, games and videos on coping strategies. https://www.childline.org.uk/toolbox/calm-zone/
Inclusive Teach: Sensory learning ideas for all senses, sensory circuit activities and self-regulation activities. https://inclusiveteach.com/2020/03/20/150-sensory-learning-ideas/
Visual Impairment Useful Websites for advice about Visual Impairments Guide Dogs https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/ RNIB https://www.rnib.org.uk/
Look UK https://www.look-uk.org/
VICTAR https://www.victa.org.uk/
Pathways to Literacy https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/
Positive Eye https://www.positiveeye.co.uk/ Lots of useful resources and ideas for children with visual impairments - all ages and needs from
Paths to Literacy https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/blog/stay-home-activities-children-visual-impairments
Digital Books that can be viewed on a tablet or laptop and enlarged as needed – all ages Both free but need to register first https://www.rnibbookshare.org/cms/ http://www.seeingear.org/
Kitchen Curriculum for Children with Visual Impairments – all ages How to develop skills around eating and preparing food https://www.rnib.org.uk/insight-online/kitchen-curriculum-children-vision-impairment
Positive Eye Craft Sessions suitable for Children with Visual impairments – primary Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays – live or recorded to watch later https://www.positiveeye.co.uk/general-news/positive-eye-idea-machine-week-1- class-1-recording-23-3-2020/
Positive Looking with Your Visually Impaired Baby – preschool https://www.positiveeye.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Positive-Looking-withyour-Baby.pdf
Learning activities
BBC Bitesize – Teaching videos and activities for a variety of subjects from Y1 to Y10. Lessons are updated daily.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/dailylessons
Also includes a parent’s SEND toolkit (some links to external websites other than BBC).
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zh9v382
McDonalds – Fun creative activities, colouring sheets and a small selection of books with reading tips at the back (created in conjunction with National Literacy Trust).
https://www.mcdonalds.com/gb/en-gb/family-hub.html
Read, Write inc. – Phonics programme with phonics, reading and spelling lessons streaming every day and available for 24 hours.
Also includes story time and poetry time videos.
https://www.ruthmiskin.com/en/find-out-more/parents/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo7fbLgY2oA_cFCIg9GdxtQ/videos
Scratch – Computer programming. You can programme your own games, stories and animations and play projects created by others.
Blockly Games – Educational games teaching programming for those with no prior experience of programming.
https://blockly.games/?lang=en
The National Literacy Trust – Family Zone contains links to Literacy activities, stories to watch and listen to, drawing tips and links to further useful websites. Activities are organised by age range
https://literacytrust.org.uk/family-zone/
There is also a collection of short stories and poems from well-known children’s authors, accessible through the website, which is dedicated to key workers. This collection is designed to ‘comfort, inspire and entertain children in lockdown’.
https://literacytrust.org.uk/family-zone/9-12/book-hopes/
Poems and stories with Michael Rosen
https://www.youtube.com/user/artificedesign/videos
Hungry Little Minds – Government website containing simple, fun activities for those at a developmental age of 0-5.
https://hungrylittleminds.campaign.gov.uk/
Oak National Academy - A sequenced plan of video lessons and curricular resources for you to use as you wish, to complement your teaching and planning. Developed by 40 state school teachers from different areas; it is entirely free, accessible on any device and no log ins are required. Supported by DfE. They offer a schedule of lessons daily of teachers can use lessons for particular subjects. Lessons cover reception to KS4.
https://www.thenational.academy/information-for-teachers/
They are currently working on specialist for pupils with additional needs, and teachers based in specialist settings. This offer should be available from 4th May.
https://www.thenational.academy/specialist-provision
Northern Ireland Curriculum - Practical resources to support developing a sensory curriculum for learners. Activity outlines and list of resources required.
https://ccea.org.uk/learning-resources/thematic-units-pmld
Twinkl: They are continuing to update their home learning hub with schedules and lesson ideas and have a parent’s page for additional support. Enter offer code for premium access (Offer code: UKTWINKLHELPS).
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/covid19-school-closures
Live Lessons from Twinkl teachers
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMY4o8_rPjmFoatx7F4TvHQ
ReadingWise: Free resources to support reading comprehension. Schools will need to register in order to be given a whole school username and password which can then be shared with pupils. Access will currently expire on 31st May. Included is an online interactive Roald Dahl pack (story section and questions can be read aloud on screen), classics pack and a link to a phonics resource.
https://readingwise.com/coronavirus-support
https://readingwise.com/blog/homelearning-with-readingwise
Classroom secrets: Home learning packs by age group and supporting activities including fine motor skills practise and memory games.
Crickweb: Educational games across age ranges and curriculum areas
Word United: Videos and worksheets including hand washing sequences, simple sensory activities, emotions board game, communication cards, fine motor skills activities and more. Can be filtered by topic and includes an SEN filter.
https://wordunited.com/resources/
Western approaches: History lessons live from a WWII bunker, video clips and activities.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE1PzOWM3L4z9wZGFfHSUdw/feed?disable_polymer=1
National Geographic kids: Games, fact sheets, learning activities across various subjects https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/
https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/teacher-category/primary-resources/
Legoland California: Weekly Lego challenges, wordsearches, mazes and colouring sheets https://www.legoland.com/llcbuildingchallenge/
ASDAN: Free resources and lesson plans from pre-entry level and entry level, up to level 2 (GCSE) can be downloaded after completing a short form. Incudes resources for learners with SEND focused on life skills and experiences which can be completed at home. Other units include English, maths, animal care and employability.
https://www.asdan.org.uk/resources/free-resources
Minecraft: Information regarding how to access Minecraft education resources * teachers and learners require a valid Office 365 Education account to access – some elements are available without this.
NASA: pictures, videos, games and activities about NASA and it’s missions.
https://www.nasa.gov/kidsclub/index.html
Online books/ stories/ music activities
Oxford owl: Free ebook library, storytelling videos and activities for English and maths including home learning ideas. From 3+
https://home.oxfordowl.co.uk/reading/
Storyline Online: Stories read by celebrities
https://www.storylineonline.net/
Singing hands: Makaton signed nursery rhymes, songs and stories. https://www.youtube.com/user/SingingHandsUK/videos?disable_polymer=1
The Sensory Projects: Links to live streaming TACPAC sessions, massage stories and sensory stories.
http://www.thesensoryprojects.co.uk/covid19-resources?utm_source=
Soundabout live: fun songs and music activities for children to join in with using instruments or household items.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzkf-oB7V5tTguM36Km5WAA/featured
Mr Tumble: Makaton supported videos and songs.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/shows/something-special
Communication and Interaction
Widgit iPad/ tablet access - Widgit Online is now fully accessible on iPads and tablets. Go to www.widgitonline on your tablet and login as normal; you can access all your files and make new grids and documents and even access the camera to make instant (and relevant) symbol replacements.
Free 30-day, enhanced trial, is still available using code is WIDGIT30 and you can find out more from https://bit.ly/2QGH1f7
TACPAC – Set 5 currently free with code 8Q7A3TXS.
Tacpac uses music and touch to structure sensory communication and can be used to support sensory regulation. Suitable for any age including pupils with sensory impairment, developmental delay, complex learning difficulties, tactile defensiveness, and limited or pre-verbal levels of communication. Once you have Set 5 it's important to watch the videos of the activities on the Tacpac website to help you get started. Here's how to find them:
1. Go to tacpac.co.uk, click on 'My Account' in the main navigation and sign in
2. On your dashboard, click 'Memberships', it's in the pink list on the left hand side
3. You will see Set 5 listed there, click 'view'
https://tacpac.co.uk/product/set-5
SEN teacher – various resources across subjects in addition to social skills, assistive technology, sensory and communication resources. Both printable resources and interactive tasks.
Tiny Happy People – Activities, advice and songs to help develop early communication skills. Aimed at a developmental age of 0-5.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/tiny-happy-people
I CAN – communication support including advice on how to talk to children about Coronavirus and communication activities.
https://ican.org.uk/a-message-to-our-supporters-on-coronavirus/
There is also a free telephone helpline for parents and practitioners to discuss questions or concerns about speech, language and social communication needs. They are currently trying to expand to giving video advice.
https://ican.org.uk/enquiry-line/
ITV Signed Stories – Link o an app which provides animated sign supported stories (only available on Apple not Android). Good selection of stories, some are free whilst others can be purchased (99p - £3.99 approx.).
https://www.signedstories.com/apps/british-sign-language
Twinkl: Communication cards, PECS cards and visual support resources (Offer code: UKTWINKLHELPS)
Widgit: Symbol supported tasks and activities, including recipes and arts and crafts – updated regularly.
https://www.widgit.com/resources/popular-topics/index.htm
In addition access to WIDGIT online remains free (Code: WIDGIT30) with templates to create symbol resources such as visual timetables, schedules, flashcards, word mats, bingo cards and worksheets (templates found in the create a grid option. Also offers speech to text option (only in Google Chrome). Examples and tutorials on website – contact team if additional support required.
Illinois Autism Partnership School closure toolkit: Now and next visuals, task boards, schedules and images for sensory movement and academic activities – may not all relevant but good range and choice.
https://qrcgcustomers.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/account4876975/6552095_2.pdf?0.11589340381807767
The Communication Trust: Activities to support communication an interaction.
https://www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk/media/3166/postcards_school_age_final.pdf
Social, Emotional and Physical Wellbeing
THRIVE approach: A Facebook site has been set up which is open to everyone. Posts for activities and ideas for wellbeing in addition to weekly activity updates added to the files section.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/145621073473221/
NHS: Every mind matters tips for anxiety, suitable for older pupils or parents who are worried or anxious about Coronavirus and isolation.
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/coronavirus-covid-19-anxiety-tips/
Young minds: Articles aimed at teenagers and young adults about anxiety, wellbeing and coping with coronavirus and isolation. General coping strategies and articles linked to specific mental health difficulties. Also offer advice for parents supporting young people.
https://youngminds.org.uk/blog/
https://youngminds.org.uk/blog/talking-to-your-child-about-coronavirus/
Headspace: Free guided meditations
https://www.headspace.com/covid-19
A few thoughts on Corona Virus: Dr Siobhan Timmins – Guidance for adults on supporting positivity to reduce anxiety.
https://carolgraysocialstories.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/A-few-thoughts-on-the-Corona-Virus.pdf
Government guidance around supporting mental health and wellbeing: Provides specific sections for learning disabilities, autism and how children at different ages may react.
University of Oxford and University of Reading: Guidance on supporting young people with worries about COVID-19.
Amazing kids: Animation based on young people talking about autism and their experiences.
Understood: Activity ideas to support social and emotional skills and the second link contains ideas for hyperactive learners.
Sadler’s Wells theatre: family dance workshops and movement activities aimed at pupils 2-6 years old but fun for any age to join in.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAC0ZTI5pkuzlbdGtV_-bimq6JL5ArVit
Indoor ball games: suitable for various ages and most made from household items.
Tumble Tots: Physical activities and live sessions to follow with action songs https://www.tumbletots.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Tumble-Tots-at-Home-Activity-Grid.pdf
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPy56tmTI89AlYwablw5FPhkJKJNvpjPQ
Change 4 life: Accessible and indoor physical activities.
https://www.nhs.uk/change4life/activities/accessible-activities
SEN Resources Blog: Videos with activities to promote learning through play.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpkztoFHIgP4jpJDKWNWaHA
Paths to literacy: An Early Tactile Activity for Young Visually Impaired Children
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/strategies/whats-my-purse-early-tactile-literacy-routine
PMLD/ Complex needs
Little Amber: Free musical activity cards for children with Complex Needs and/or visual impairment
https://www.ambertrust.org/littleamber/app/
Active Learning Spaces: Advice and activities to create an active learning environment at home for children with Complex Needs and/or visual impairment. Links to activity ideas can be found if you scroll to the bottom of the linked page.
http://www.activelearningspace.org/families/families-overview
Sensory app house: Range of free sensory apps for sensory stimulation and relaxation, including digital painting and photo fun
http://www.sensoryapphouse.com/
Ash Field Academy: Home learning suggestions for pupils with PMLD.
Online Safety
Most give parental advice with a few containing activities for young people to complete themselves.
Thinkuknow: Advice on using parental controls, safety activities updated fortnightly.
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/Support-tools/home-activity-worksheets/
Childnet: Advice on parental controls, parent toolkit, advice for talking to children about staying safe online and a specific topic board regarding supporting young people with SEND online.
https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers
https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers/hot-topics/supporting-young-people-with-send-online
NSPCC: parental controls, talking to children about internet safety, online gaming advice, understanding the risks of different online content and how they can be used safely. https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/
Virtual tours
Lots of virtual tours available across zoos, museums and even theme parks. The websites below list a selection of these but many more are available by searching online.
https://www.goodtoknow.co.uk/family/best-virtual-tours-for-kids-536089
https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/135714/virtual-field-trips/
UK and US zoo live streams: https://www.holidaypirates.com/travel-magazine/13-zoos-that-offer-live-streams-see-giraffes-koalas-pandas-tigers-penguins-more_35765
Google Earth and Google Earth education: Explore places across the globe; guided questions, lesson plans and activities available.
https://www.google.co.uk/intl/en_uk/earth/
https://www.google.com/intl/en_uk/earth/education/resources/
Virtual farm videos: https://www.facebook.com/pg/AnimalFarmAdventurePark/videos/?ref=page_internal
Virtual photo and video tours of aircraft: https://www.eyerevolution.co.uk/aircraft/
Roller Coasters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vwAu5cEIM8&feature=youtu.be
Free online counselling support for Children and Adults
Kooth Kooth is an online counselling and emotional wellbeing platform for children and young people, accessible through mobile, tablet and desktop and free at the point of use. Students can chat online to professionally accredited counsellors. It provides services for the NHS and is part-funded by the National Lottery.
Relate Support, guidance and counselling services for families and young people, through private online chat rooms and phone calls. When families are going through a tough time, Relate offers support to help everyone settle.
Childline Childline is yours – a free, private and confidential service where you can talk about anything. Whatever your worry, whenever you need help, they are there for you online, on the phone, anytime.
The Social Emotional Learning Programme - MindUP - have released some free resources that can be accessed from any device and printed.