Science Websites for Kids

Cool Science

Although the name Howard Hughes might sound a little above most kids heads, the Cool Science Website sponsored by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute immediately captures kids interest with topics such as Why are snakes like lizards and monkeys like moose? and Meet the dust—and other strange stuff. This science website for kids invites them to investigate science both online and in their own world. Their mission is simple—We looked at some of the best science projects from some of the best museums in the country. Then we adapted them for the Web. Some of these activities are entirely electronic. Your child will do everything on screen. Others require you to go to your kitchen or backyard. Designed for students in kindergarten through second or third grade, this site is fun and interesting.

National Geographic Animals

The granddaddy of animal science websites for kids, National Geographic will help your kids become familiar with lots of unusual creatures, such as bats and warthogs. Links will take your kids to fun facts, video clips, audio, and related maps.

Simple Machines

Does your kid show an innate curiosity for how things work? If so, he or she will love this Simple Machines website. There is information on machines, like levers, pulleys, wedges, and wheels. There are links to places such as Interactive Online Activities and Inventor's Toolbox as well.

Rocks Rock!

Is there a little rock collector in your family? The Rock Hound Website gives kids information and background on many different types of rocks. Kids can find out cool facts on how rocks were formed and take a fun quiz, too.

Government Sites

Government websites for kids don't have to be just about science. Kids.gov offers kids links to geography, math, technology, history, and of course science, too. This massive site lists other popular governmental science websites for kids, including the following:

• Ideas-Offers ideas for agricultural science fairs.
• Beach Kids-Great interactive site about beaches.
• Wonder-Berkeley Labs is the sponsor of this Did you ever wonder? site.
• NASA-NASA helps kids explore the world.
• Library of Congress-Solve some of the world's greatest mysteries at this site.
• [http://www.srh.noaa.gov/srh/jetstream/ A great online school about weather.
• National Zoo-Visit the online exhibits.
• NASA Rocket Science-Offers kids an opportunity to view visual simulations.
• Yellowstone National park-Take a field trip online at this site!

Inventive Kids

Founded by Annie Wood, this website is designed for boys and girls and features the accomplishments of male and female inventors. More than 35,000 students visit the site annually. The interactive science website for kids offers numerous games and activities for kids to enjoy.

Learning Planet

Learning Planet offers lots of fun activities for pre-K up to sixth grade. Student can search for games and other features which are categorized by grade level, subject, and category. Participants can create their own activities to share with others as well.