Screen time among children and teenagers is a big talking point these days. Quite naturally, there are many concerns over the sometimes-obsessive attention which children pay to their phones, laptops, and games consoles. However, it’s important to remember, that the internet is a hugely useful resource as well as an educational tool. Allowing children a broad academic experience is important for children, as this senior school in the West Midlands believes.

What sort of websites are educational?

There are many excellent websites and apps which provide great learning opportunities for children.

It’s online that children can learn about other cultures, traditions, arts, music and history in interactive ways. Something which brick and mortar libraries can’t usually replicate.

Of course, there are also thousands of time-wasting opportunities online too! Games, useless videos, and apps proliferate and are very popular among children. But as a parent you can guide your child to fun, entertaining and educational websites which will not only help them at school but also help them discover new interests. If you don’t keep them on track they might end up having too much screen time which can lead to problems.

Here are some ideas so screen will be more educational. I have included something to interest most children too:

Websites for children who love history

History for Kids from The National Trust has everything from the Tudors to the First and Second World Wars – and a lot more besides!

Learning Zone from the BBC offers fantastic and engaging short films on all sorts of historical facts for children aged 7 to 11.

National Geographic Kids offers a fun, interactive experience with tonnes of facts, pictures and information on historical events, places and people.

Websites for kids who love science

National Geographic Kids – The National Geographic comes out on top with this fun, broad and informative site.

BBC Bitesize KS2 for children in Key Stage 2, the BBC offer useable and interesting resources for science-lovers.

Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory offers games, films, activities and a lot of information on space-related topics.

There are, of course, many excellent websites out there. We’ve only touched the tip of the iceberg here. Remember to assist your child to find suitable websites and if they want to print out resources, help them access a printer. Colouring, games, and worksheets are often provided for free on good websites.

If your child has a smartphone, there are lots of educational apps they can download. Have a chat with your child’s teachers if you are looking for further recommendations, as they will know what’s age appropriate and in-line with the curriculum.