J.K. Rowling Launches 'Harry Potter at Home,' Casts a Banish Charm on Boredom

Click here to read the full article.

Even though there’s no official national lockdown, many states are working independently to stop the spread of COVID-19 by issuing orders to stay inside and close all non-essential businesses. And with families stuck at home, a myriad of celebrities, including talk show hosts and singers, have taken it upon themselves to hit social media in hopes of entertaining the public. Children’s book authors (including Dolly Parton!) are hosting virtual storytimes, illustrators like Mo Willems are giving virtual drawing lessons…it’s a grand time to be online. But truly, is there a better way to entertain kids at home than to have J.K. Rowling entertain them? Now, you can do just that.

“Parents, teachers and carers working to keep children amused and interested while we’re on lockdown might need a bit of magic, so I’m delighted to launch HarryPotterAtHome.com,” Rowling wrote on Twitter.

Today, the famed British author brought Harry Potter at Home into the world with the tag line “Bringing Hogwarts to You.” Her platform aims to “cast a banishing charm on boredom” by featuring magical craft videos, fun articles, quizzes, and puzzles. Even if you’re a first-time reader, the site offers something for everyone. Watch a guide on how to draw a Niffler or try a Harry Potter word search. Plus, teachers can read the seven Harry Potter books aloud to their pupils in virtual read-along sessions on video.

Rowling’s first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, is free on Audible throughout April. And if you’re an OverDrive library patron, you’ll be able to borrow Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone as an eBook or audiobook in over 20 languages from participating local and school libraries. Bring a little magic into your virtual classrooms and homes — it’s free wizarding for all!

If your kids need more entertainment, download these free ABC printables.

Launch Gallery: These Free Printables Will Make Learning the ABCs Fun for Kids

More from SheKnows

• 10 Places To Shop (Other Than Amazon) That Offer 2-Day or Less Shipping

• Target is Having a Massive Sale on 'Ryan's World' Toys -- Grab Em' While They Last

• Jane Fonda Just Recreated Her Iconic 1980s Home Workout Video -- Leg Warmers & All

Best of SheKnows

• All-American Baby Boy Names That Make an Impact

• How to Help Your Kids Learn to Read (& Love It) at Home

• Celeb Moms Who Are Brutally Honest About Their Miscarriages

Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.