Online Research Engines for Kids

http://www.ala.org/greatsites This is a directory of over 700 kid-safe websites organised in a subject tree maintained by the American Library Association. Take a look at the Literature & Languages tab. It has a host of intriguing sites (more for enjoyment than study).

http://www.ask.com Formerly AskKids.com, this search engine is still useful for children. A standard topic search brings up a list of related ‘Popular Q & A’ in a column to the right

http://www.awesomelibrary.org This site is best for upper Primary. You can search using your own key words or as a directory by clicking on topic then sub-topic.

http://www.dibdabdoo.com/ Used as a search engine with a key word or directory by clicking on topics, this site will guide you to relevant and kid appropriate sites. Especially suitable for lower Primary.

http://www.facthound.com This is a useful directory on a range of areas studied at school. It usually provides only three websites on a specific topic, but three useful sites is far better than 300 useless ones!

http://www.factmonster.com This is a directory for kids that connects to age-appropriate reference materials. Helpful on a range of popular and educational topics.

http://www.kidsclick.org A directory of web sites put together by librarians. It’s easily searchable by subject and especially good for lower Primary.

http://www.kidzsearch.com A children’s friendly version of Google (VPN needed), most suitable for upper Primary on a range of topics they will be studying.