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Ben's Guide to Government for Kids (http://bensguide.gpo.gov)

common sense media says

Valuable education tool, but games won't wow kids.

parents & educators say
See all 5 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this site is the U.S. Government Printing Office's educational online outreach for grades K to 12. The nonpartisan, text-heavy site provides tutorials and games on all branches of U.S. government, history, states, and symbols. It's informative, but amusing enough that kids will actually enjoy learning things. Parents and teachers may have to help younger kids sift through the lengthy information and read them only the most relevant parts.

Educational value: Kids can find almost anything about U.S. government or a link to another appropriate site.
Positive messages: Not applicable.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: This is an educational, nonpartisan government site, so no ads here.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Ben's Guide to Government for Kids

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about why some of the historic documents posted on the site, such as the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and the Emancipation Proclamation, are important. Families can also discuss how learning about the government can help kids and families be active citizens. How does knowing about the government help us make positive changes in our country?

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
This nonpartisan site isn't heavy on bells and whistles, but it's rich in information about the ins and outs of federal government and citizenship. The plain graphics, simple games, and lengthy text make this U.S. Government Printing Office-sponsored site a great place for students, parents, and teachers to go for information, but not necessarily for entertainment.

Some games repeat throughout the grade levels, and a few are too rudimentary to interest most kids older than 12. Explanations of how bills and laws are created, why the nation needs a government, and what government agencies do in the community are clear but dry and, therefore, may not wow most gradeschoolers.

This review was written by Dana Villamagna
 
 

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sam1201
teen, 14 years old
3
 
hey
loveit
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gojhmgo
kid, 11 years old
8
 
this hole site is great
love this site and so do my kids
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C-JOKER
kid, 9 years old
8
 
I LIKE IT SO FAR I HAVE NOT LOOKED AT IT A HOLE LOT?
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ninga
kid, 7 years old
6
 
...click...
does this site have to have the word sex
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
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