During this challenging time, the wellbeing and development of our city’s children remain top priorities. In light of the school and business closures caused by COVID-19, the City’s PHLpreK team has compiled recommended activities and resources for families and childcare providers:

For families of young children

• At-home activities and routines

  • Free Library of Philadelphia: Did you know you can get a library card online? This card will give your family access to electronic resources, downloadable ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines. The Free Library is also hosting online events for children – follow them on Instagram and Facebook for updates!
  • Scholastic Learn at Home: Visit this website for science and social studies videos and activities designed for students in pre-K and kindergarten.
  • Storyline Online: This site features videos of celebrities reading children’s books, complete with illustrations.
  • School District of Philadelphia Early Childhood Toolkit: The School District of Philadelphia’s Office of Early Childhood created a Parent Toolkit full of activities for young children.

• Food, housing, and financial resources

  • Where to find free, nutritious food during COVID-19: The City of Philadelphia and partners have established over 120 new locations where families can find free food.
    • Families can also call 311 to find a food pantry, or text their zip code to 800-548-6479 for a list of nearby pantries from WhyHunger. Be sure to call ahead to confirm the pantry’s schedule.
  • Free pregnancy, baby and toddler supports during COVID-19: Free diapers, food, cribs, and virtual support are available for expecting families and families with babies and toddlers. Check out this list of resources compiled by the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.
  • Help With Housing During COVID-19: COVID-19 restrictions will leave many families with reduced or no income. Check out the City’s guide for renters and homeowners facing housing issues.
  • Information for Pennsylvania Employees Impacted by COVID-19:  Learn more about your eligibility for Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation benefits.
  • Information and resources for Philadelphia workers impacted by COVID-19: Learn more about sick leave, utilities, and job opportunities.  
  • New tax deadlines:
    • Taxpayers now have until July 15, 2020 to file and pay their federal and state income tax returns without penalty.
    • The City’s due date for 2020 Real Estate Taxes is now April 30, 2020.

• Health and wellness resources

  • Health and wellness tips for parents with young children during COVID-19: Take care of your mind and body while you’re at home, with these recommendations from Get Healthy Philly.
  • Infant Toddler Early Intervention Procedures during COVID-19: Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services published an overview of early intervention services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • “Take a Breath”: Check out this song by singer-songwriter Raffi, which can help children deal with stress.
  • How to Talk to Your Kids About Coronavirus: Advice and activities for parents and caregivers to have informative and reassuring conversations with children about COVID-19.
  • Hotlines:
    • Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-866-723-3014
    • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
    • To report Child Abuse, contact ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313  or 215-683-6100
    • Call 1-877-PA-Health to report public health emergencies
    • National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
    • Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
      • This 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline provides immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.

For early learning providers

• • Philadelphia Emergency Fund for Stabilization of Early Education (PEFSEE): This fund will provide tiered grant awards of up to $20,000 to provide immediate relief to eligible early education organizations operating in Philadelphia. Applications open on April 6.
  • Philadelphia COVID-19 Small Business Relief Fund: Provides some small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with immediate relief through grants. 
  • Information and resources for businesses impacted by COVID-19: Learn about additional resources and relief available for Philadelphia businesses.
  • The US Small Business Administration: Learn about disaster assistance loans and other resources for small businesses.