iCivics

Website review by Conny Coon, Common Sense Media
iCivics Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 12+

Engaging games give kids safe, smart civics lessons.

https://www.icivics.org/
Rate website

Parents say

age 11+

Based on 6 reviews

Kids say

age 10+

Based on 7 reviews

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this website.

Stands out for .

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that iCivics is a safe, educational site designed to help kids learn (and teachers teach) about civics topics, including democracy, constitutional law, the branches of government, elections, and campaigns. Using engaging, interactive games and innovative educational materials, the site aims to prepare American kids to become knowledgeable, engaged citizens of the 21st century. Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor founded iCivics in 2009 to reverse the nation's declining civic knowledge and participation and to foster an understanding and respect for the U.S.'s system of governance. Kids, parents, and teachers alike will find a wealth of useful and entertaining materials at their fingertips. Under the CCPA law you have the right to protect your personal information. Make a Do Not Sell request to iCivics.

Community Reviews

motnasia
motnasia Adult
February 16, 2021
age 18+

Warning - Terrible app/learning tool. Brainwashing ideaology!

The game, "Win the White House", with elementary kids as the start option is clearly politically driven. You pick a Political Party to debate against the other team, the other political party. However, the app predetermines issues for Democrats and Republicans. Meaning, as a Democrat, you can't choose to debate/push your National Defense, but can on Pollution. Republicans can't choose to push their agenda on Pollution, but can on Fighting Terrorism. It's way to inaccurate and completely brainwashing for elementary kids. Imagine an learning app that only allows girls to have Pink Avatars and boys only Blue. Girls can only play with unicorns and boys with construction toys. It's the same logic and just another brainwashing app.
Pat C.
Pat C. Adult
August 20, 2017
age 10+

Disappointed teacher

I used iCivics for a semester for my 9-11 yo class at a homeschool resource center. I liked the organization. It gave me a bit of a jumping off point when I was organizing a new class. But it was too shallow and not challenging enough for my students. It didn't engage them or light their fires. They were bored, even with the games. I phased it out in favor of other materials. Good starting point. But ultimately not satisfying.
See all 6 parent reviews

What’s It About?

iCIVICS is essentially an engaging educational site cleverly disguised as a gaming spot, with innovative games, cute animated characters (Liberty Belle and Chuck Freepress), and a real-world reward component. The more games you play and the more "Impact points" you earn, the more impact kids can have on an actual community service project. Games focus on core civics concepts such as rights, the court system, governance, freedom of speech, and constitutional law. Each game is creatively executed and educates while it entertains. Instructions and information are clearly presented and easy for tweens and teens to comprehend. Kids can drop in to play or become members and create a safe account that enables them to save in-game progress, unlock special features, and compete with other members. Educators have access to free, standards-aligned civics curriculum and comprehensive teaching materials.

Is It Any Good?

Who says studying civics can't be fun? At iCivics, learning about government, citizenship, civil rights, politics, public policy, and The Constitution is exciting, entertaining, and engaging. Through interactive games ("Cast Your Vote," Immigration Nation," "Responsibility Launcher"), kids can get a grasp of often-complicated concepts and improve their understanding of civics curriculum. Educators of all levels can turn to these online tools to supplement their in-class teaching and turn kids on to some of the more staid civics lessons through gameplay. The language and look used throughout iCivics is geared to the computer-savvy student and it offers a fresh, fun-filled way to learn through play.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the importance of understanding democracy and how our nation's government works.

  • Talk about how the Internet is a valuable tool for helping with school subjects such as social studies and math.

  • Talk about the importance of making smart decisions about technology even when it's being used to help with schoolwork and learning.

Website Details

  • Subjects: Social Studies: citizenship, government, power structures
  • Skills: Responsibility & Ethics: following codes of conduct, honoring the community, respect for others
  • Genre: Educational
  • Pricing structure: Free
  • Last updated: October 17, 2019

Our Editors Recommend

  • Mobilize.org Poster Image

    Mobilize.org

    Nonprofit site that empowers Millennials to get involved.

    age 14+
  • DoSomething.org Poster Image

    DoSomething.org

    Not-for-profit site encourages and supports youth action.

    age 16+
  • PeaceCorps.gov/kids Poster Image

    PeaceCorps.gov/kids

    Peace Corps Challenge fosters understanding and compassion.

    age 11+

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate