Websites for Budding Scientists (a.k.a. All Kids)
By Asha Dornfest, Parent Hacks
I have just begun home schooling my ten year-old son. But, like so much in parenting, what I thought would be a process I led...
Me: "Here, son! Let's sit down and learn about the Ancient Greeks!"
Him: "Um..."
...is turning into a process in which I follow.
Him: "Let's do a chemistry experiment!"
Me: "Sure!" (followed by frantic Google searching for a how-to.)
I'm learning as much as he is, and it's pretty exciting. Sure, I'm learning about the topics he's interested in, but I'm also learning just how much material is out there for curious kids (and adults). There are enough hands-on science experiments to keep your kid busy for months. Want to know more about how money gets printed and engraved? Or cave biology? Or space exploration? The info's out there. And the vast majority of it is free.
Even better, much of it is presented by people who are passionate about their topics of interest. There's something electric about learning from someone who's jazzed about the subject matter. It's just as important for kids to see that excitement modeled for them as it is to actually learn about the periodic table, or geologic time, or whatever.
"Well no duh, lady, it's the INTERNET. Of course there's lots of information. That's the whole point." Yes, but I had no idea just how much of this information is available to kids, in ways they can actually use and enjoy themselves. Perhaps I've just never been curious enough myself to find this stuff out. Whatever the reason, I want to share a few of my favorites. I'm only just beginning to delve into the Web's science offerings, but here's at least a good place to start.
Rader's Chem4Kids (also Physics4Kids, Biology4Kids, Geography4Kids, and Cosmos4Kids)
Short chunks of information on all sorts of scientific topics. Well-organized and smartly written with just enough info to whet kids' further research.
Science With Me!
Amazing array of information, games, worksheets, coloring pages, and activities. Perfect for younger kids to explore with a parent or older sibling.
HowToons
How did I not know about this site? Think Instructables in comic book form. Beautiful toons teach kids how to make toys and stuff out of other stuff (most of which you have lying around the house). I intend to spend hours here.
Kids.gov
"The official kids' portal for the United States Government" sounds rather ominous, but it's actually a fantastic site for kids in grades K-8. It's essentially a well-organized index of government-produced (and other) content all over the Web, broken down into kid-friendly topics. For example, I found pointers to the Kid's Corner of the Endangered Species Program (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service) and healthy eating games at Small Step Kids (U. S. Department of Health and Human Services).
NASA Kids' Club
Every kids wants to know something about space. Right?
National Geographic Kids
I'm not a fan of the kids' magazine (too much brand placement!) but I really enjoy this beautifully-designed website. I grew up with the original magazine and with National Geographic TV specials, so these folks will always have a special place in my heart.
Yahoo! Kids: Science
More interesting factoids and videos lots of science topics. I like that this site integrates a tag cloud...great way for kids to jump start kid-safe web searching. Also has the benefit of a familiar Yahoo interface.
Fact is, every kid's a scientist. Every kid is trying to make sense of the world by collecting data, making hypotheses, and coming to conclusions. So even if your kid doesn't jump out at you as a "math/science type," invite him to join you in exploring these sites. Kids don't fit themselves into the same categories we do. Your sensitive, artistic daughter may fall in love with ornithology and grow up to be the next Audubon.
[Top image credit: Howtoons]
What are your (and your kids') favorite science websites?
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Asha Dornfest is the founder of Parent Hacks -- where savvy parents swap clever, often unconventional, parenting tips. Here's the practical, real-world stuff you'll never find in an "expert" book. Featured in Real Simple, Parents, and PC Magazine.
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