Top Online Learning Tools for Kids
What if I told you more children know how to operate a computer mouse than how to tie their shoes? Would you believe it? It’s true. According to a survey from the Internet security company AVG, 69 percent of children ages two to five know how to use a computer mouse, yet only 11 percent know how to tie their shoes. Technology is a huge part of our children’s lives, but there’s more to it than games and social networking. Here are today’s top online learning tools for kids of all ages.
Tots
ABCya!: Pre-K kiddos can learn letters, numbers and strategy skills with the online learning platform ABCya!. From letter tracing games to letter matching activities, learning the ABCs is as easy as 123. Each game found on the site was created or approved by certified school teachers. Additionally, ABCya! is KidSafe approved, providing a safe and interactive learning environment for children.
PBS Kids: Your child will get to learn alongside his or her favorite characters like Curious George, Elmo or Arthur. PBS offers learning games that cover topics such as music, problem solving, shapes, numbers, coloring and more. And you can take your children’s learning with your wherever you go on portable devices with the PBS Kids apps.
Elementary Age
Funbrain: With more than a dozen free math games for kids, the learning opportunities seem to keep multiplying. Your child won’t get bored of fractions, addition or division, as the games from Funbrain are designed with an arcade-like appeal, including exciting games like Space Fractions and Math Baseball. With Funbrain, the activities are more like a fun game than math homework.
NASA.gov: From games and activities to space photos and compelling content, NASA’s student portal is great for both elementary-aged kids and middle schoolers. NASA also offers the Kid’s Club — games that let your child learn about the solar system and explore outer space right from the computer room.
Teens
Driving-Tests.org: Learning safe driving habits should be a priority. Your teen is likely eager to get behind the wheel, but don’t rush. Teach your teen how to stay safe on the roads by practicing together and by modeling good behavior when you drive. Talk about road rage, texting while driving, drunk driving and other dangers of the road. Encourage your teen take online practice tests to prepare for the written portion of the exam. This way, they’ll know the rules of the road and will be ready to pass the first time through the DMV.
CollegeBoard SAT Practice: This online learning resource offers both free and paid study guides to help your teen prepare for the SAT, like the cost-free question of the day or the official SAT online course, which includes 18 interactive lessons. Your teen can also get a customized study plan by entering in a few details such as what test they are taking and when they will take the test. On CollegeBoard, your college-bound teen can even learn about different universities and colleges from across the country and college majors that may peak his or her interest.
