The Genius of Play Experts Offer Advice to Families During COVID-19 Pandemic

April 2, 2020 │ Following its initial rollout of at-home learning resources last month, The Genius of Play has continued to release new content from child development experts that helps address critical topics for families coping with the new realities of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Working with our panel of experts, who range in discipline from early childhood education to occupational therapy and more, we’ve curated a variety of new content that addresses everything from how to talk to your child about coronavirus to a list of the best sing-along songs to offer comfort to families,” said Anna Yudina, senior director of marketing initiatives at The Toy Association. “During times of uncertainty such as these, The Genius of Play remains committed to supporting parents and teachers with the resources they need to fuel kids’ passion for play and learning.”

New sales data from The NPD Group shows that play serves as a critical tool for parents and caregivers during times of crisis, helping feed families’ physical and emotional well-being. The Genius of Play experts highlight these ideas across multiple pieces of new content. For example, emotional dynamics expert Dr. Erik Fisher and Talia Filippelli, psychotherapist and founder of Starr Therapy, offer parents strategies to help kids manage stress during times of uncertainty through play, structure, and patience. Professional educators including Tyler Kearns and Dr. Brian A. Stone also offer additional at-home learning and teaching tips, including STEAM activities and the importance of meeting kids where they are developmentally. You can read more from The Genius of Play experts here.

Additional resources, play ideas, and initiatives will continue to roll out on The Genius of Play website in the weeks ahead. Audiences are encouraged to bookmark The Genius of Play’s new dedicated Learning At Home resource page, which features links to free activities, e-learning hubs, and virtual classes to keep kids engaged as parents work from home. Member companies interested in having their resources featured can email info@thegeniusofplay.org for more information.