Library Resources for Kids

Hello, new homeschooling parents and caregivers! Are you looking for a way to keep your kiddos entertained while you sit through your 3:00 p.m. Zoom meeting? We have some ideas that might just keep things quiet for a little while!

Looking for learning opportunities?

The Library might just be your new best friend! MCPL has tons of learning and educational resources for kids of all ages. Here are a few:

• Explora for Kids – a kid-friendly research database. Kids and parents can search for information on a wide range of topics, including science, biographies, math, language arts, and more!
• Teachables – a resource used by teachers and caregivers alike! You can find tons of age- or skill-appropriate learning activities, work and coloring sheets, and printable books.
• National Geographic Kids – an excellent resource that allows your kids to travel the world (virtually) and learn about animals, plants, geography, and more.
• TumbleMath – This resource teaches math basics but keeps it light, colorful, and entertaining. You can access math-related stories, topical lessons, and even quizzes.
• If you’re looking for more learning resources for kids, check out the Library’s Homework Help for Kids (or Homework Help for Teens) page!

Looking for general entertainment?

• Just for Kids Access Video – an amazing streaming service that is as advertised: just for kids! It is jam-packed with fun TV shows, throwback educational shows like Reading Rainbow and Sesame Street, and even a few movies!
• OverDrive for Kids – This resource has hundreds of excellent and well-known children’s books and graphic novels/comics available to read at the quick tap of a screen or click of your mouse. Books can be read on many eReader devices, through an app, or directly through the browser you use!
• If you’re looking for some Fun and Games, the Library has created a huge list of free options for kids of all ages!

Kiddos missing their friends?

If you find your kiddos are missing their school friends, there are a couple of different ways you might be able to help them reconnect!

• Video Conferencing Apps – Using services like Zoom or Google Duo, kids can chat and catch up. There are even some services, like House Party, that are set up for users to play games!
• Facebook Messenger Kids – Parents and caregivers can set up an account for their children to connect with other children or family members. There are games kids can play to earn stamps in the app or play with other connected friends.
  • There are many options for parental supervision/monitoring, and caregivers can set the level of supervision they wish to have.

The Library proudly offers many of these resources and more! MCPL even has some resources that are kid-tested! If you want to explore more educational resources for all ages, check out the Research & Learning page of the website. If you’re interested in entertainment, try out the options on the Go Digital page!

Paige L.
Consumer Technology Specialist