Resources for Parents
Resources for Parents
We’ve compiled some great websites to give you the resources you need to support your child’s learning and to help you make the best choices about books, media, and technology for your individual child.
Education Resources
Massachusetts Home Learning Association
Virtual School Librarian: Support for students & teachers provided by the Massachusetts School Library Association
Reading Resources
1000 Books Before Kindergarten – “The concept is simple, the rewards are priceless. Read a book (any book) to your newborn, infant, and/or toddler. The goal is to have read 1,000 books (yes, you can repeat books) before your precious one start kindergarten.” – From website
Books Build Connections Toolkit from AAP – This toolkit from the American Academy of Pediatrics provides information for parents on early literacy and early learning.
Children’s Audiobooks (Hoopla)
Children’s Audiobooks (Audible)
KidLit TV: Explore the world of children’s literature
Reading Rockets – “Reading Rockets is a national multimedia literacy initiative offering information and resources on how young kids learn to read, why so many struggle, and how caring adults can help… Our goal is to bring the reading research to life — to spread the word about reading instruction and to present “what works” in a way that parents and educators can understand and use.” – From website
Shelf Stuff: Connecting readers to the imagination and adventure of the tween book community
Reviews & Recommendations
Common Sense Media – An independent, non-profit organization that provides unbiased reviews of books, media, and technology for children and teens. Wondering why a movie received that PG rating or if a book might be too scary for your child? This is the place to find out! Also includes themed lists, top picks, and parent reviews.
A Mighty Girl – “A resource site to help others…interested in supporting and celebrating girls. The site was founded on the belief that all children should have the opportunity to read books, play with toys, listen to music, and watch movies that offer positive messages about girls and honor their diverse capabilities.” – From website
Brightly – A resource site that “provides passionate parents, educators, and caregivers with the tools they need… to keep kids connected to books through every age & stage of life. [Brightly works] with a diverse group of contributors, authors, and partners who cover a wide range of topics for readers of all ages in order to cultivate a love of books and reading in children.” – From website
Start with a Book – Activities and booklists related to kids’ favorite topics.
PLAY & LEARN
31 Days of LEGO Play: Daily Lego building challenges
ABCya: Kids computer games and fun activities
America’s Test Kitchen for Kids: Try recipes, experiments, and take quizzes to learn more about the culinary world
Britannica Learning Zone: Fun and educational games from Encyclopedia Britannica
Fun 4 the Brain: Brainy games that are also fun!
FunBrain: Arcade games, games based on books, and more!
Fun and games about Nature and the Environment
Mathplayground: Fun math games for all ages
PBS Kids: Educational Games and Videos
Primary Games: Arcade games, puzzles, and more
Softschools -math games: Fun math games for all ages