Learning During COVID: Creativity and Resilience

Learning Through Covid

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unique challenges for Benji and Giulietta’s learning. Much of their programming relies on community-based activities, trips to the mall, social circles, volunteer experiences, and hands-on learning in real-world settings. When everything shut down, these opportunities weren’t available, and we had to rethink how to keep them engaged and making progress toward their goals.

We got creative when schools and community programs were closed. With nowhere else to go, we turned the garage into a home-based learning space, transforming it into a flexible classroom for Benji and Giulietta. Tables and chairs were set up for focused activities, shelves and bins held learning materials, and the space was organized into different zones for letter identification, social skills practice, turn-taking games, and hands-on tasks. Even though their usual routines and community outings weren’t possible, this adapted space allowed learning to continue in a structured yet engaging way.

This period highlighted the importance of flexibility and creativity. It wasn’t easy, but finding new ways to meet their goals reinforced that learning can happen anywhere, whether in the community or at home, and that engagement and motivation can thrive even in challenging circumstances.