Free Children's Games Online

Most free computer games associated with popular television networks or well-known toy manufacturers are age-appropriate, non-violent, entertaining, and educational.

There are, however, online games that state they are appropriate for children, but are really not. Therefore, it's important for parents to know exactly which free games their children are playing on the Internet. Some websites that seem to offer benign kids' games are also connected with chat rooms and other sorts of inappropriate messages.

Safety While Playing Free Games

These days, kids play free children’s games online just about as often as they watch television. Since there so many available on various sites, it's easy for a child to always find a new and exciting game to play. However, parents can do a few things to help ensure that kids are avoiding unsuitable game websites, and not spending too much time on the computer.

The following are tips on how to find appropriate free children’s games online:

• Watch the child play the game, and ask him or her questions about the goals of the game. Keep the computer somewhere out in the open (such as in the living room) instead of allowing the child to play free games in a bedroom with a closed door.

• Free Internet games can quickly become addicting, and if allowed to play them at will, they can eat a good chunk of a child's free time. Therefore, it's important to limit the number of hours a child is allowed to play on the computer each day.

• Some free game websites are associated with chat rooms and areas to post messages. If a child plays on one of these websites, it's essential that he or she understands the danger of revealing personal information to strangers.

Games for Preschool Kids

By the age of three or four, most kids will show an interest in free children's games online. For kids who have not yet started school, there are websites that provide age-appropriate and educational games.

Some of the most popular are:

• PBS Kids
• Nick Jr.
• Noggin

Games for Kids Grades Kindergarten-3rd

Kids who are in kindergarten through third grade are usually satisfied with and eager to play most free online computer games. Parents may find that kids in this age range will need some help to get a game started. However, once the rules are known, most can happily spend an hour or more at the computer if allowed.

Some of the most popular game websites for younger elementary school age kids are:

• Nickelodeon
• Yahooligans
• Up to Ten

Games for Kids Grades 4th -7th

Parents will quickly notice that kids in grades four through seven will get progressively more opinionated when it comes to what they're allowed to play on the computer. Kids in this age range are starting to show more independence, and this can be reflected in which free games he or she chooses to play.

Following are some recommended safe websites for preteens:

• The Disney Channel
• Cartoon Network

Games for Kids Grades 8 and Up

Once children reach the eighth grade, they are usually in need of more complex computer games than those designed for younger kids. Games that involve one or more players but require critical thinking skills, technique, and the use of strategy is what kids in this age range will most enjoy.

Following are some of the websites that provide free games for teens:

• Free Kids Games
• The Kidz Page
• KidsCom