2005 Year in Review

Safe Websites for Kids

Source: Jane Scherer (217) 244-2849; News writer: Bob Sampson; phone: 217-244-0225; email: rsampson@uiuc.edu

University of Illinois Extension has a suggestion for parents trying to find safe, informative websites to entertain their children during the summer months. The sites are located at: Just for Kids

"On the Urban Programs Resources Network there are several good websites specifically targeted toward teaching children in a fun way," said Jane Scherer, U of I Extension urban programs specialist. "These pages are grouped under the 'Just For Kids' section."

The pages cover everything from a child's first garden to insects to the role earthworms play in improving the environment to what to look for in a walk in the woods during a family vacation.

"All the information is presented in a fun, entertaining fashion," said Scherer.

"My First Garden" helps children learn gardening fundamentals and plan the first garden. "Let's Talk About Insects" introduces users to these creatures, which account for more than half of all the living things in the world.

"The 'Walk in the Woods' page could be ideal for a family that is planning a vacation that might involve hikes or other outdoor activities," said Scherer. "Children can learn about what to expect and what to watch for in the woods."

"The Adventures of Herman" presents information about those common and often overlooked creatures, earthworms.

The "Just for Kids" section also has a page for would-be babysitters.

"It's called 'A Guide to the Business of Babysitting,'" said Scherer. " There, children can learn about the basics of babysitting and how to operate and market their own babysitting business."

by  Editor, theCity1.com
June 23, 2005