The COVID-19 pandemic has closed down many schools. Some are fully in virtual learning mode. Others have a hybrid approach of in-person and online learning (as my school does). And others have gone 100% back to in-person, but are still following guidelines for safe social distancing and cleaning.
It’s a pretty crazy time right now. But that doesn’t mean that creativity has to be cancelled. We’re all at different places right now, and if re-opening your makerspace in some form is too much to add to your plate right now, I get it. And don’t let anyone judge you as less for it. But if you’re eager and ready to bring back making in some form, it can be tricky to figure out how to make it work right now. How do students collaborate from six feet apart? What projects can students make when they’re limited to supplies at home? How in the world do I sanitize a MakeyMakey?
Check out my Demco Post: How to Manage A Makerspace During a Pandemic
Obviously, I can’t answer every question. Each school and situation is different, and the information we have available regarding this virus is constantly changing. Honestly, I haven’t even started up makerspace activities yet at my own school – I’m waiting until we’ve had a few weeks to get used to our hybrid learning schedule before adding making back in. But in my post for Demco, I can offer ideas, suggestions and advice for things to think about as you’re considering ways to reopen your makerspace.
Check out my post for some general guideline ideas, tips for in-person and synchronous making, and advice on ways to implement virtual maker learning. But most importantly, go slowly and be kind to yourself. Remember that you don’t have to do ALL the things. We’re all doing the best we can right now, and that’s more than enough.