 | ON: Content is age-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. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Sea and Sky
Common Sense Media says
Kids of all ages can indulge their sea and space curiosity.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that SEA AND SKY is a personal website created by a web designer who shares accurate, in-depth information about his hobbies: marine biology, oceanography, and astronomy. The site is supported by ads, which sometimes blend in with the content. Overall, it's engaging, educational, and safe for kids.
What kids can learn
Kids can learn about oceanography, marine biology, and astronomy on Sea and Sky. "Sea" features science news, a gallery of exotic marine life, and an ocean exploration timeline; "Sky" includes an astronomy reference guide and profiles of key astronomers, astronauts, and space missions. Kids who are new to these topics can find the answers to questions like, "Why is the sky dark at night?" There's also more in-depth content geared toward visitors with some science background. Created for fun by an amateur scientist, Sea and Sky has a wealth of accurate, well-written information.
Skills
- Thinking & Reasoning
- Creativity
- Self-Directionacademic development, initiative
- Emotional Development
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Responsibility & Ethics
- Tech Skills
- Health & Fitness
What's it about?
Created by a web designer who moonlights as an amateur astronomer and marine biologist, Sea and Sky encourages kids to explore these two amazing natural realms. Visitors will find a guide to exploring the cosmos, information on maintaining an aquarium, recent scientific breakthroughs in the fields, book reviews, cool nature photos, and more.
Is it any good?
Sea and Sky's breadth of information is impressive, especially for a site that's maintained as a hobby. The content comes from reliable sources (like NASA and science journals) and is sophisticated enough to appeal to teens and adults without being too technical for curious kids. An interactive tour of the deep seas introduces visitors to unusual marine life in a creative way, and photo galleries include some breathtaking shots. Most of the content is written, though; adding more interactive features could make Sea and Sky even more engaging, especially for younger explorers.
Explore, discuss, enjoy
Families can talk about safe, smart ways to search for information online. How do you know if something is a trustworthy, reliable source?
There are ongoing discussions about funding different types of exploration. Where do you think the priority should be -- in space or in the sea?
What kids can learn
Kids can learn about oceanography, marine biology, and astronomy on Sea and Sky. "Sea" features science news, a gallery of exotic marine life, and an ocean exploration timeline; "Sky" includes an astronomy reference guide and profiles of key astronomers, astronauts, and space missions. Kids who are new to these topics can find the answers to questions like, "Why is the sky dark at night?" There's also more in-depth content geared toward visitors with some science background. Created for fun by an amateur scientist, Sea and Sky has a wealth of accurate, well-written information.
Subjects
- Language & Reading:
- Math:
- Science: astronomy, biology, ecosystems
- Social Studies:
- Arts:
- Hobbies:
Skills
- Thinking & Reasoning:
- Creativity:
- Self-Direction: academic development, initiative
- Emotional Development:
- Communication:
- Collaboration:
- Responsibility & Ethics:
- Tech Skills:
- Health & Fitness:
How kids will learn
Kids will mainly learn by reading; although there are photo galleries, a few basic games, and a clickable tour of the deep sea, most of Sea and Sky is made up of written content rather than interactive features. However, topics are discussed in a lively manner, and curious kids will find in-depth information and plenty of links to additional resources. Plus, guides about setting up an aquarium and observing celestial events encourage kids to continue learning offline.
How parents can help
- Check out Sea and Sky's constellation calendar to find out what's visible at different times of the year, and head outside to look at the night skies.
- Take a trip to an aquarium to get an up-close look at interesting marine life.
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
Parent of 6 year old
October 2, 2012
AGE
sea and sky
if something is a trustworthy, reliable source?
There are ongoing discussions about funding different types of exploration. Where do you think the priority should be -- in space or in the sea?
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Topics: | science and nature |
| Genre: | Educational |
Contact us to give us more feedback on our learning ratings.
Review It
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
