YouTube
SCIENCE
Fun with STEM is a YouTuber who is working on his PhD in Astrophysics. His videos range from advanced calculus to preschool experiments and explanations. While the majority of his videos are space-themed, he also discusses dinosaurs, math, and other STEM-centric topics. He is also an active duty service member!
His video answering Curios Kids Cosmic Queries is one of my favorites!
Crash Course kids is a kid's version of Crash Course videos. They move at a swift pace while breaking down advanced concepts for learners. These videos are appropriate for upper-elementary through middle school scholars. Some primary aged scholars can also access the topics discussed.
Check out their Preview video for a better idea of their channel's pace and topics covered.
This former NASA engineer not only has watched his own technology land on Mars, he has also founded CrunchLabs and creates youtube videos that follow the Engineering Design Process. He explains the scientific principles behind each of his highly engaging videos. Some videos are more mature than others, however most are appropriate for upper elementary scholars to view.
The Glitter Bomb videos are my students' favorite, followed closely with the Squirrel Series.
SciShow is a channel all about science. They have a subchannel called SciShow Kids which tackles many of the same topics but at a more accessible level for elementary-aged children. Both channels focus on science through engaging videos which go in depth into each topic.
SciShow Kids explain Colds in a short video on Youtube. SciShow goes into viruses as well, but their version focuses on the Flu.
MATH
This channel uses visual arts to explain complex math topics and break then down. It's Fun with STEM, but focused on only advanced topics and geared to math more than science.
Khan Academy provides step-by-step videos that explain mathematical (and more) concepts. Khan Academy the website also has practice activities so sholars can DO what they learn on YouTube.
How do numebrs do what they do? How are they related? How do they impact our lives? These answers are pragmatic and may be on the channel. Mostly, really advanced mathematicians share keen observations about different numbers.There's a 12+ minute video "Why 7 is Weird" about the number 7... it was really sept-thing special!
Prodigy is an adaptive game (math and E/LA) and this YouTube channel breaks down updates, gameplay, features, and exciting opportunities for scholars. While the game is free to play, students are often prompted to become members. Members have perks like unlimited pets in game, but this costs money.
ENGLISH / LA
Intended mostly for high school scholars, students can dive into entomology, mythology, and a sarcastically dry and hilarious series called It's Lit! PBS is behind this compilation of playlists and videos.
From book hauls to relatable quizzes and reviews, Epic Reads connects readers to books of interest and allows parents to preview books to check for maturity appropriateness. This channel is more appropriate for middle school-aged scholars through high school scholars.
Reading Between the Lines (Ted-Ed)
Videos from every corner of the upper-elementary through high school literature classes adorn this playlist on YouTube. If you're looking for something to read, to dive into mythology, or to ponder literary questions like what makes a great Shakesperian insult- this is the channel for you!
This digital library also has a YouTube channel where you can meet original characters, learn about the entomological roots of words and your parents and teachers can get some tips. Epic targets children 12 and under. The digital library is free to educators and has a paid plan for parents. This is a great option for elementary aged children in the middle of a PCS season.
SOCIAL STUDIES
PBS put together this channel to discuss and investigate cultures around the world. Due to the mature content discussed on this channel, I would strongly suggest getting parent persmission prior to viewing some of the videos on this channel.
Epic Rap Battles of History: MATURE
This is another mature-viewing channel due to the content discussed and themes. Nice Peter and epicLLOYD take historical figures and set them up against each other in (at times explicit) rap battles. Parent permission is highly suggested before viewing this channel. The rappers conduct hours of research prior to each writing sessions.
My favorite battle is between Sir Isaac Newton and Bill Nye featuring Weird Al Yankovic as Newton.
Geared to a younger (elementary / primary school) audience, Bedtime History shares biographical stories, technologies in the past, and important moments in history. This is a great (mostly) violence-free resource for younger scholars who love a good historical bedtime story.
Brad Meltzer is the author of books for adults and children. The series I'd like to hilight here is his sereis: Ordinary People Change the World or the "I Am" series as some of my former students called it. This series takes historical figures and makes them accessible to elementary aged audiences (It's TIme for a Storyor Oridnalry People Change the World playlist). He also shares talks and interviews which are appropriate for middle school-aged scholars.
ALL SUBJECTS More Coming Soon
Are you curious about... everything? THIS is the channel for you! They have so many playlists, podcasts, and videos. Some playlists of note include Film Criticism, AI, Organic Chemistry, Theater and Drama, Statistics, Computer Science... and many more!
Want to know what's going on in the world? This channel (and magazine) are perfect for upper elementary - middle school scholars who want to understand the world around them as it is and be up to date on current events, sports, scientific findings, and arts.
Interactive
Stuck at home? No problem! Take a tour of a museum, create art, explore different cultures right from your own home. Imagination really is the best way to vacation!
Prodigy Math is a free website with an upgrade option where students can collect different pets to battle while solving math problems. It meets you where you are and challenges you to think a little more critically as you solve problems. You’ll need to make an account so get parental permission!
Want to create a flier? A chore chart? How about a slide presentation explaining why you should get that new iguana you just saw at the pet store? Check out Canva to make all of the above and more. Let your creativity be free in the free version of this program. There are paid versions too with more options available You’ll need to make an account so get parental permission!
Technology / Coding
This nonprofit organization will help you develop your computer, coding, and problem solving skills.You’ll need to make an account so get parental permission!
The Arts
The Arts... all in one place: dance, music, visual art, and theater. While the website says it is for teachers, kids are welcome to parose the variety of materials available. Use the filters to help find what you're looking for.
Drama Resource has all the drama I'll ever need. They have plays, games, and strategies to practice and hone your craft.
Can't make it to Washington, DC? That's okay! The Smithsonian Institution has many of their displays available online along with oodles of other content available. They have podcasts, videos, and history galore!
If Art is in your heart, check out the NC Museum of Art located in Raleigh, NC. Click on exhibitions to learn more about the current and upcoming special exhibitions coming to the museum.