So some of you might be thinking, “Apps for iPads and such are all well and good, but my kid has no such doodads.” Have no fear, there are websites a plenty to educate and engage our children too. Here are two that should keep young ones busy for a long time.
One of Reina’s all-time favorite websites is www.uptoten.com. Uptoten is entirely in both English and French with over 1000 “age appropriate” games and learning activities for children ages 0-10, according to the website. They boast over 5 million views a month and I don’t doubt it. When Reina gets on the site, it’s an easy half hour of mucking about. The website offers content that is free as well as a premium subscription area and an option for schools too. To date, we’ve only dabbled in the free content, but will probably try out the premium service next year. Besides, games and activities, there are dozens of short songs sung by the two main animated characters that encourage manners and life skills. Uptoten is definitely a site worth a look.
The other site I’m highlighting today is new to our family, but I’m confident it will become a household staple – www.smories.com. “Smories are original stories for kids, read by kids.” That’s what the site says (and not much more) and that’s what it delivers in brilliant, easy to use simplicity. I would stack up many of these kids against adults when it comes to reading storybooks to a young audience with enthusiasm and life. It’s a great way to hear some wonderful stories and, who knows, it may inspire your own child to make a video and enter the websites monthly contests. So support some of the world’s youngest, and cutest, storytellers by listening to a few Smories today. You’ll be thankful you did.
