Watch and Learn

I often cringe at commercials I see for t.v. shows marketed to children and tweens today.  Not only do most of them lack substance, but many of them actually seem to promote the sassy, know-it-all attitude I work so hard to try to prevent in my children.  Still, like many other parents, I find I am guilty of occasionally suggesting that the kids "go find something to watch" on t.v. when I am busy.  But, the t.v. doesn't have to be the time wasting bad guy it's made out to be.  Choosing the right program is the key to guilt-free viewing.

There are many quality shows out there, and for more than just pre-schoolers.  Let's start with the obvious...PBS.  I think they probably have the best selection of educational shows.  Yes, many are for younger children, but there also shows for older elementary and even high school students.  Here are some of my favorites (in no particular order).

• Sid the Science Kid
• Cyberchase
• Wild Kratts 
• Word World
• Zoom
• Super Why
• The Electric Company
• Sci Girls
• Fetch!
• Word Girl
• Biz Kid$
• Inside Nature's Giants
• Wide Angle
• Nature
• POV
• NOVA

There are other channels, as well, which have very educational shows.  Qubo has Time Blazers, and The Zula Patrol.  The History Channel periodically runs episodes of Gettysburg, Vietnam in HD, and WWII in HD.  The Discovery Channel has Planet Earth, Curiosity, and of course Mythbusters.  With a little research, and the help of a DVR, the right program can be ready to watch whenever you are.  Many shows are also available for online veiwing.  So, go ahead, plop the youngsters down in front of the "boob tube" to watch and learn while you live the good life.

What are your favorite educational tv shows?

Karissa

Educational Websites

 

There are so many great educational websites available that I couldn't possibly list all of them.  Here are some to get you started.  I will continue to add to this page, so check back often.  Please note that some of these sites are completely free, some have free options and paid membership options, and some are strictly paid sites.  If you find any broken links please let me know and I will remove the link.  What websites do you use?

• Starfall
• Brain Pop
• Brain Pop Jr.
• Big IQ Kids
• Math Blaster
• Book Adventure
• Math Play
• Kids Know It
• Learning Games for Kids
• Soft Schools
• Fun Brain
• ABCYa
• Spelling City
• ABC Mouse
• Khan Academy
• Zoodles
• Quizlet
• Study Stack
• First In Math
• Primary Games
• Handwriting Worksheet Maker
• Math Dictionary for Kids
• Science for Kids
• Online Typing Games
• Dynamic Periodic Table
• Cool Math 4 Kids
• Fun Maths
• Helping With Math
• Math Salamanders
• Math Crush
• Math Playground
• Worksheet Works
• Ed Helper
• Fun School
• Knowledge Adventure
• Arcademics

Still can't find what you're looking for?  School Library Journal has an interesting article which lists websites that allow you to create your own educational computer game!  Or, visit my play-to-learn board on Pinterest.

Karissa