Helping Kids Learn, Participate and Have Fun with StayHome.Miami
New website gives children and families things to do during quarantine
Sponsored by The Children’s Trust
When Suze Guillaume woke up on a recent morning during this already month-long quarantine, she was surprised to see her son up and in front of the computer. Even more surprising, he wasn’t playing video games or watching YouTube. Instead, he was visiting a new website, StayHome.Miami. Actually, he was doing more than visiting. He was learning.
“I woke up to find my son engaging with the StayHome.Miami website and listening to audio books,” Guillaume said, adding that his favorite books so far were Viva Durant and Secret Silver Buttons. “Beyond amazing! We will definitely share with our network.”
Guillaume went on to say that her son likes to listen to the audio books while completing other distance learning assignments from school, and that doing so helps him complete his reading goals for the week. “Last week, we went for a walk to look for rocks to create rock art. It really gave us something to do,” she added, referring to another activity featured on the site.
“StayHome.Miami is a great resource for families during a difficult time in our community. It’s free and there are no hidden fees. Parents are trying to balance working from home, homeschooling their children, attend meetings and the StayHome.Miami website gives them opportunity to get things done,’ Guillaume said.
The brainchild of The Children’s Trust, StayHome.Miami is designed specifically for what all parents in Miami need right now – interesting, engaging, educational, and perhaps most importantly, fun activities that you can do at home. The website features a variety of modules with different activities and resources that are sure to grab your child’s attention. Don’t be surprised if you are right there with them, mesmerized.
“StayHome.Miami is full of valuable information to help you and your family cope with the challenges we are facing right now,” said CEO and President James R. Haj. “Instead of anxiety and confusion, we want to help you see this time as full of hope, with as many fun activities as possible.”
Among the highlights are downloadable coloring books, audio books, fun craft ideas with paper and other common objects, and even activities you can do with rocks! The annual Young Talent Big Dreams talent competition will also be featured on website in its new digital format starting next week — children can submit audition videos to compete for a spot in the semifinals and finals.
True to the glitterati nature of our city, StayHome.Miami is chock full of celebrities. Those downloadable coloring books come courtesy of famed Miami artist Romero Britto, while read-aloud books are read by an assortment of celebrities. And did we mention that the Godmother of Miami Rhythm, Gloria Estefan, recorded a special music video explaining the importance of social distancing.
The website is for all Miami-Dade children and families, but it will be particularly useful for those of low-income and others with special needs. Another feature is a series of videos instructing kids, especially those with disabilities, of ways to stay active, do more arts and crafts, and even sing and dance to get in a better mood. The videos were shot exclusively by staff of Easterseals South Florida.
The Children’s Trust created StayHome.Miami as a support for the children and families it serves in Miami-Dade County as a way to make their time indoors more enjoyable as they keep to social distancing recommendations.