2021 is finally here. It feels like a moment we have all been looking forward to for so long- hoping that it would bring with it a different set of circumstances, and some easier times. But sadly that hope hasn’t lasted long. Because, of course, a new year means nothing to a coronavirus- a tiny piece of RNA, wrapped up in a protein coat.
I do believe better times are on the horizon though. The vaccine is the solution, and I have been so pleased to see the beginning of the roll out. Hopefully, the vaccination of those most vulnerable will begin to bring down the death rate fairly quickly, and reduce the burden on the health services. But it is going to take some time before enough people have been vaccinated to truly allow us all to return to business as usual.
So, until then, we have to find ways to not just survive, but also thrive, despite the circumstances. But it’s not easy. When I heard the UK government had announced a change of plan just 12 hours before schools were due to re-open, my heart went out to the educators who had been working so hard to ensure their schools were as safe as possible, and to the parents forced into a last minute scramble to secure child care, or adapt their own work around their child’s remote learning
At Braintastic!, we want to help, and we have a developed range of resources that can help both parents and teachers with remote learning.
For families
For the duration of the lockdown, we are offering our online Sens-ational Science Club completely free for the families of key workers, and on a pay-what-you-can basis for everyone else. Just head to Families | Braintastic (braintasticscience.com) to make a free account, and you will get instant access to 6 activity-packed sessions all about your amazing senses. You will also find a button to make a donation to Braintastic! If you are able to do so, we really appreciate it, as it will help us continue to reach as many young people as possible.
For schools
All our shows are available virtually, and we are happy to adapt to deliver to a full classroom, or straight into pupil’s living rooms. We have worked hard to keep them as interactive and engaging as they are on stage, and students will be able to take part in experiments and activities however the shows are delivered.
We understand how hard it is to plan ahead at the moment, but we are currently taking bookings for this term, including Science Week in March, and are happy to agree the exact delivery method nearer the time. Just head to our website to see the shows & workshops we have available, or get in touch to discuss your needs.
And if the changes have you, or your kids or students feeling anxious, it’s important to remember this is a natural reaction to an unusual situation. Earlier in the pandemic I made this video with Elfyland Studios, but it applies as much today as it did then- please do share it with anyone else you think might find it useful.
Stay safe, and stay curious
Ginny and the Braintastic! team
