5 Online Programs Every Teenager Needs During COVID
By Serena Norr
Adjusting to life during a global pandemic is no easy feat. Today’s teenagers have had to quickly pivot from having a busy school life to time at home with online and hybrid schooling. And while they’ve adapted and adjusted, there’s no doubt that they are drained and not feeling productive. Below, we’re sharing some great online programs that will help teens feel productive, engaging, and advancing:
Have them take online classes they love: With kids being online more, it’s crucial that they have an online outlet for something that they love. At Girls With Impact’s live, online Academy girls (ages 12-18) learn the tools to create their own ventures from their passions. Some of our grads created companies such as Anisha Shashidhar who created Bee-f-fs, a fun educational clicker game that raises awareness about why honeybees are crucial to the environment or Kayli Joy Cooper created Girl Well, a company that makes wellness kits for homeless girls. Check out even more girl ventures here.
Take a virtual club: There are so many cool clubs online where your child can connect with other kids from around the country (and even the world) by tapping into something that they love. On Outschool, students can learn everything from cooking to gaming to mental health, and tons more.
Take a virtual tour: With the new surge of online learning, teens can literally travel the world by right from their computers. Check out online tours such as Ripley’s Aquarium’s Live Streams Walk With Penguins & Watch Octopus Feedings, Google Arts & Culture List of 1200 International Museums with Virtual Tours or Google Arts & Culture Open Heritage Project Explore Iconic Locations in 3D, to name a few options.
Stay connected to friends: With social distancing, hybrid, and remote learning, it can be hard for kids to see their friends. To stay connected, teens can use Houseparty, Participation, or host a movie night together via a Netflix Party.
Use social media for good: It’s no secret that teens are on social media but they can use it as a positive tool by connecting with their peers and even starting their own businesses. This can be anything from singing and dancing on TikTok to starting a lifestyle brand on Instagram.