Back to School Guide

THIS GUIDE WAS MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF SCE.

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE

A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Young kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE

A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Young kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE

A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Young kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE

A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Young kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Young kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE

A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Young kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: • Encourage kids to connect their digital story in Toontastic with real life. Kids can re-create something that happened on a family vacation or in school. They can also make one up and then act it out in a live performance.

DO THE MATH

Countless options await as kids practice and apply an array of math skills. Encouraging characters help young kids build confidence and excitement about basic operations like addition and subtraction. Older kids see how math can be applied to everyday situations.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

DO THE MATH

Countless options await as kids practice and apply an array of math skills. Encouraging characters help young kids build confidence and excitement about basic operations like addition and subtraction. Older kids see how math can be applied to everyday situations.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

BUDDING SCIENTISTS

With just a few clicks, kids can take virtual journeys to the bottom of the ocean or the surface of the sun. Picture young kids’ delight as they go back in time to visit the dinosaurs or take a trip inside the human body.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

BUDDING SCIENTISTS

With just a few clicks, kids can take virtual journeys to the bottom of the ocean or the surface of the sun. Picture young kids’ delight as they go back in time to visit the dinosaurs or take a trip inside the human body.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: • Help kids transfer the skills they learn in Sid’s Science Fair to hands-on practice.

Find objects in your home (buttons, blocks, dry cereal) for them to classify and chart.

Ask “How are the objects different?” to help them identify characteristics.

A STUDY IN SOCIAL STUDIES

Great graphics and history-inspired storylines transport kids to another time. Younger kids will love taking a spin around a virtual globe to visit far-off lands.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: • Expose kids who enjoy playing Ni Hao, Kai-Lan to other cultures. Read books about how different groups celebrate important dates, such as New Year’s. Invite kids to act out these rituals.

ARTS APPRECIATION

A paint box of possibilities awaits as kids explore new shades of art and music. A mobile art set with virtual paintbrushes, crayons, and more encourages young kids to draw and paint with abandon.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea • Make music with kids using real instruments. Even simple homemade instruments give young kids a chance to explore rhythm and sound. Make a shaker by putting uncooked rice in a sealable container, or make a set of drums out of buckets and tin cans.

HOBBIES: A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

Taking a deep dive into an area of personal interest can make kids feel confident and fulfilled. Having a hobby is also a great way to balance out schoolwork. Younger kids can learn the rules and fine points of their favorite sports or build vocabulary through fun word games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: • Invite kids to show off skills they’ve learned in Dora’s Cooking Club. Plan a family meal together. Name ingredients, and ask kids to help gather them. Then ask kids for help with measuring and counting — a contribution that will help with math, too.

MULTI-SUBJECT MIX

Exposure to a variety of topics helps keep kids’ attention and gives them a boost in several areas. Younger kids can benefit from puzzles to help them learn grammar, math, motor skills, and more — all at once.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

MULTI-SUBJECT MIX

Exposure to a variety of topics helps keep kids’ attention and gives them a boost in several areas. Younger kids can benefit from puzzles to help them learn grammar, math, motor skills, and more — all at once.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: • Connect with kids’ teachers to find out which areas they might need some refreshers in, then use PBS KIDS Lab’s search filters to pick games that help them practice those skills.

Encourage kids to set goals for the games to keep them engaged.

THINK AND REASON THIS

Working out difficult problems is an important skill for school, work, and life. Through simple puzzlers and mysteries, young kids become virtual sleuths.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: • ¿Habla español? Even if you don’t, learn Spanish words and phrases alongside your child using Oh Noah!. No need to shoot for perfection, either. Seeing you make mistakes can convey to your child that it’s OK to struggle a bit while learning.

GET CREATIVE

Lots of new games give kids the freedom to experiment and tinker. This out-of-the box thinking can lead to new ideas and creations — like young kids brainstorming new combinations in word and letter games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

GET CREATIVE

Lots of new games give kids the freedom to experiment and tinker. This out-of-the box thinking can lead to new ideas and creations — like young kids brainstorming new combinations in word and letter games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Ideas: • Take kids to the zoo, and ask them to name the animals and objects they see, building on the vocabulary learned in ItzaZoo. When you return, ask kids to draw pictures about the experience and tell you stories about what they saw.

• Pair kids up with a family member to create a story on the Storybird website. The collaborative experience is a great way to learn about and document family history. Kids can then save and share stories with other family members over long distances.

SAY HOW YOU FEEL

Getting along with others is a crucial skill in and out of school. Now there are websites and other forms of technology to reinforce these values. Young kids can learn to express their feelings and appreciate others cultures.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

SAY HOW YOU FEEL

Getting along with others is a crucial skill in and out of school. Now there are websites and other forms of technology to reinforce these values. Young kids can learn to express their feelings and appreciate others cultures.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Ideas: • Use the vocabulary kids learn in Peek-a-Zoo to help your kids identify their own or others’ emotions. Ask questions like “How do you know she’s happy?” to help them identify indicators of different emotions.

• Ask kids who like LeapFrog Explorer Learning Game: Pet Pals 2: Best of Friends! to help care for family pets. Emphasize that family pet care is a team effort, and give kids age-appropriate tasks.

Even young kids can fill food bowls or brush furry pets.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AND FITNESS

Staying healthy and fit are the foundations for a happy, long life. These picks help young kids get started early as they get inspired to move their body in new ways and celebrate a rainbow of vegetables.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: ¡ Take a cue from Toca Doctor, and encourage kids to help you address their own injuries -- or siblings’. Model a curious and positive approach to the body. Ask kids questions to involve them in their own healing.

PRESCHOOL PREP SKILLS

The early years are a time of forming lasting impressions and habits. Getting kids off on the right foot is crucial. Use these terrific titles with your little ones to help them name their emotions or even start potty training. They can also learn about their ABCs, 1-2-3s, and other skills that build a solid foundation.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

PRESCHOOL PREP SKILLS

The early years are a time of forming lasting impressions and habits. Getting kids off on the right foot is crucial. Use these terrific titles with your little ones to help them name their emotions or even start potty training. They can also learn about their ABCs, 1-2-3s, and other skills that build a solid foundation.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

PRESCHOOL PREP SKILLS

The early years are a time of forming lasting impressions and habits. Getting kids off on the right foot is crucial. Use these terrific titles with your little ones to help them name their emotions or even start potty training. They can also learn about their ABCs, 1-2-3s, and other skills that build a solid foundation.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

PRESCHOOL PREP SKILLS

The early years are a time of forming lasting impressions and habits. Getting kids off on the right foot is crucial. Use these terrific titles with your little ones to help them name their emotions or even start potty training. They can also learn about their ABCs, 1-2-3s, and other skills that build a solid foundation.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

PRESCHOOL PREP SKILLS

The early years are a time of forming lasting impressions and habits. Getting kids off on the right foot is crucial. Use these terrific titles with your little ones to help them name their emotions or even start potty training. They can also learn about their ABCs, 1-2-3s, and other skills that build a solid foundation.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

PRESCHOOL PREP SKILLS

The early years are a time of forming lasting impressions and habits. Getting kids off on the right foot is crucial. Use these terrific titles with your little ones to help them name their emotions or even start potty training. They can also learn about their ABCs, 1-2-3s, and other skills that build a solid foundation.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

PRESCHOOL PREP SKILLS

The early years are a time of forming lasting impressions and habits. Getting kids off on the right foot is crucial. Use these terrific titles with your little ones to help them name their emotions or even start potty training. They can also learn about their ABCs, 1-2-3s, and other skills that build a solid foundation.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Health & Fitness Preschool Prep

Bright Idea: • Help preschoolers reinforce learning during everyday activities. Practice counting objects around the house, or ask them to identify shapes of objects. When possible, make the learning purposeful — count how many forks you’ll need for dinner, for example.

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE

A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Younger kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Older kids can find a challenge in reading comprehension questions or build SAT vocab through sci-fi adventures.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

LANGUAGE AND READING JUMP OFF THE PAGE

A host of imaginative language tools can help kids learn to read and communicate clearly. Younger kids might trace letters on touch-sensitive screens, sound out words in animal-themed games, or make up cartoons about their lives.

Older kids can find a challenge in reading comprehension questions or build SAT vocab through sci-fi adventures.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Idea: • Use StoryBuilder as a jumping-off point for writing practice. Help kids write down one of their recorded stories and develop it by adding more details and events.

DO THE MATH

Countless options await as kids practice and apply an array of math skills. They’ll see how math can be applied to everyday situations and learn foundational algebra concepts through snappy-looking symbols.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

DO THE MATH

Countless options await as kids practice and apply an array of math skills. They’ll see how math can be applied to everyday situations and learn foundational algebra concepts through snappy-looking symbols.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Idea: • Encourage kids to connect their digital story in Toontastic with real life. Kids can re-create something that happened on a family vacation or in school. They can also make one up and then act it out in a live performance.

BUDDING SCIENTISTS

With just a few clicks, kids can take virtual journeys to the bottom of the ocean or the surface of the sun.

Picture kids’ delight as they go back in time to visit the dinosaurs, take a trip inside the human body, and learn to pick out constellations.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

BUDDING SCIENTISTS

With just a few clicks, kids can take virtual journeys to the bottom of the ocean or the surface of the sun.

Picture kids’ delight as they go back in time to visit the dinosaurs, take a trip inside the human body, and learn to pick out constellations.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

A STUDY IN SOCIAL STUDIES

Great graphics and history-inspired storylines transport kids to another time. Younger kids take a spin around a virtual globe to visit far-off lands. Older kids role-play archeologists, pioneers, and world leaders — exploring new frontiers and making key decisions about the direction of our civilization.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

A STUDY IN SOCIAL STUDIES

Great graphics and history-inspired storylines transport kids to another time. Younger kids take a spin around a virtual globe to visit far-off lands. Older kids role-play archeologists, pioneers, and world leaders — exploring new frontiers and making key decisions about the direction of our civilization.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Idea: • Extend the learning for kids who love The Oregon Trail by taking them to a history museum or, if you live near one, a pioneer village. You can also ask your librarian to suggest historical-fiction titles set in this era for your kids.

ARTS APPRECIATION

A paint box of possibilities awaits as kids explore new shades of art and music. They’ll get lessons on essential techniques like shading and perspective and even mix their own multi-voice music.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Ideas: • Make music with kids using real instruments. Even simple homemade instruments give kids a chance to explore rhythm and sound. Make a shaker by putting uncooked rice in a sealable container, or make a set of drums out of buckets and tin cans.

• Take kids to an art museum so they can see firsthand the techniques presented in Art Academy.

Seeing art in person can inspire young artists to create and share work. Encourage kids to submit pieces to youth art shows in their school or community.

HOBBIES: A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

Taking a deep dive into an area of personal interest can make kids feel confident and fulfilled. Having a hobby is also a great way to balance out schoolwork. Younger kids can learn the rules and fine points of their favorite sports or build vocabulary through word fun games. Older kids can write for online newspapers or learn about computer programming.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

HOBBIES: A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

Taking a deep dive into an area of personal interest can make kids feel confident and fulfilled. Having a hobby is also a great way to balance out schoolwork. Younger kids can learn the rules and fine points of their favorite sports or build vocabulary through word fun games. Older kids can write for online newspapers or learn about computer programming.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Idea: • Encourage kids who are interested in journalism to apply to be a reporter for The Scholastic Kids Press Corps. Even if they don’t win the spot, they’ll gain valuable practice presenting their qualifications.

• Challenge kids who love FIFA Soccer 12 to a one-on-one match on a sunny weekend. It will give kids the chance to share what they know about soccer rules and gameplay, and you can both benefit from the exercise and family time.

MULTI-SUBJECT MIX Exposure to a variety of topics helps keep kids’ attention and gives them a boost in several areas. Younger kids can use puzzles to help learn grammar, math, and more — all at once. Apps for older kids have vast collections of articles, and instructive websites help reinforce core lessons from school.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Idea: • Notice which topics make your kids tick. Encourage them to find out as much as possible about these subjects on the HowStuffWorks website or app. After they’ve done their research, challenge them. Do the site’s quizzes at the same time, and see who scores better.

THINK AND REASON THIS

Working out difficult problems is an important skill for school, work, and life. Through simple puzzlers and mysteries, younger kids become virtual sleuths. Older kids are challenged to think ahead several steps — predicting the impact of force on objects or how others will react in multiplayer games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

THINK AND REASON THIS

Working out difficult problems is an important skill for school, work, and life. Through simple puzzlers and mysteries, younger kids become virtual sleuths. Older kids are challenged to think ahead several steps — predicting the impact of force on objects or how others will react in multiplayer games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

THINK AND REASON THIS

Working out difficult problems is an important skill for school, work, and life. Through simple puzzlers and mysteries, younger kids become virtual sleuths. Older kids are challenged to think ahead several steps — predicting the impact of force on objects or how others will react in multiplayer games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

THINK AND REASON THIS

Working out difficult problems is an important skill for school, work, and life. Through simple puzzlers and mysteries, younger kids become virtual sleuths. Older kids are challenged to think ahead several steps — predicting the impact of force on objects or how others will react in multiplayer games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Idea: • Challenge kids to use math and logic like they do in Professor Layton and the Last Specter to solve real-life puzzles. For instance, challenge them to figure out how long it takes to get to school based on the car’s average speed.

GET CREATIVE

Lots of new games give kids the freedom to experiment and tinker. This out-of-the box thinking can lead to new ideas and creations. Younger kids brainstorm new combinations in word and letter games. Older kids put their personal stamp on games by designing their own contributions.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Ideas: • Take Minecraft fans to visit a real construction site. Are there blueprints or plans they can look at? Is there a model? You could even introduce them to real builders and architects and encourage them to ask questions.

SAY HOW YOU FEEL

Getting along with others is a crucial skill both in and out of school. Now there are websites and other technologies to reinforce these values. Younger kids learn to express their feelings and appreciate others’ cultures. Older kids step into other people’s shoes as they consider online privacy and stand up to bullies.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

SAY HOW YOU FEEL

Getting along with others is a crucial skill both in and out of school. Now there are websites and other technologies to reinforce these values. Younger kids learn to express their feelings and appreciate others’ cultures. Older kids step into other people’s shoes as they consider online privacy and stand up to bullies.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Ideas: • Encourage kids who enjoy the forums on Kidzworld to join a club about their favorite hobby.

They can participate in an informal group that meets outside of school or an official school club. If there isn’t a club, suggest they start one.

TECH TOOLS

To succeed in tomorrow’s world, having a good grasp on computer and technology skills is key. Kids can learn the basics of computer programming and video game creation through inventive, forward-thinking games.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Ideas: • Encourage kids to make spin-offs of their Gamestar Mechanic creations, such as board games,

written game reviews, or artwork advertising the game. Give them art supplies, and help them locate examples to learn from.

• Help kids process what they learn in Scratch by reading through blocks linearly with them and encouraging them to say aloud what they’re doing step by step.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AND FITNESS Staying healthy and fit are the foundations for a happy, long life. These picks help kids get started early as they get inspired to move their body in new ways and celebrate a rainbow of vegetables.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Ideas: • Encourage kids to use ZisBoomBah to figure out whether what they’re eating is balanced. Have them enter in real food choices they make — both from healthy and less healthy meals. Help them understand the feedback they get. It’s great food for thought!

• Have a dance-off. Dance Central 2 is a great way to bond during family reunions or parties. Pick songs that everyone will like, and face off for some healthy competition. You can also place people in teams and keep track of scores.

MAKE HOMEWORK LESS WORK

Time outside of school can be a really productive work time. But it can be challenging, too. Having information and help at their fingertips can make doing homework much more fun for kids — and manageable for parents. Younger kids can use quick reference apps with great graphics to learn about the moon, planets, and gravity. Older kids can get help with their schoolwork from videos and slideshows on everything from history to psychology.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

MAKE HOMEWORK LESS WORK

Time outside of school can be a really productive work time. But it can be challenging, too. Having information and help at their fingertips can make doing homework much more fun for kids — and manageable for parents. Younger kids can use quick reference apps with great graphics to learn about the moon, planets, and gravity. Older kids can get help with their schoolwork from videos and slideshows on everything from history to psychology.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

Bright Idea: • Encourage kids to write their own mock HowStuffWorks article on a subject matter they’re knowledgeable in or to satisfy a school writing assignment. Kids can broaden their understanding of a topic through writing practice.

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 7-12.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 7-12.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 7-12.

Language & Reading Math Science Social Studies Arts Hobbies Multi-Subject Thinking & Reasoning Creativity Feelings & Friendship Tech Skills Health & Fitness Homework Help Ages Up to 7-12

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AND FITNESS

Staying healthy and fit are the foundations for a happy, long life. Websites dealing with weighty topics like substance abuse and sexual health help older kids make healthy, informed decisions.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17

GET TO THE CORE OF IT; ENGLISH, MATH, AND MORE

Find gems for teens that go with key subjects they’re learning about in school. They can browse activities, slideshows, facts, and interactive maps in English, science, math, and more. Suggest some of these to help bring learning to life.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17

Bright Idea: • Direct teens to HippoCampus to review material for school. Ask them to teach you a new concept they learned, using their own examples.

SKILLS FOR TOMORROW, RECS FOR THE REAL WORLD

These are great picks to prepare kids for high school, internships, and jobs. Teens can learn the basics of computer programming. They’ll also play out game strategies to help them navigate tricky situations in everyday life.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17

Bright Ideas: • Look at DoSomething.org with teens, and help them identify the issues they care about. Encourage kids to join or organize a club that does something for the community. Remind them that they can start small and build up.

• Ask teens to use Codeacademy to build a game for the family to play. Schedule a family video game night for the game’s debut. Ask your budding game designer to explain how he or she built the game, including any problems encountered along the way.

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 13-17.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 13-17.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 13-17.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 13-17.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17

CROSS-AGE PICKS

Many of our picks are great for kids of all ages. Find awesome apps, great games, and wonderful websites that can be introduced to younger kids but can also age up to kids 13-17.

Health & Fitness Core Subjects 21st Century Skills Ages Up to 13-17