Parents' Guide to

Science News for Students

By Emily Pohlonski, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 11+

Up-to-date STEM stories could inspire budding scientists.

Website https://student.societyforscience.org/sciencenews-students
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A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this website.

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age 13+

Based on 2 parent reviews

Janet Raloff
Janet Raloff Adult
August 26, 2020
age 12+

Science to capture a tween's or teen's interest

Formerly known as Science News for Kids, this free, daily online magazine is aimed at those 11 or 12 and up (and their parents and grandparents). It covers all fields of science and engineering, even some math, but not as a homework-helper--as news. It's real, award-winning journalism written by science professionals in terms even a kid can understand. But you don't have to be a kid to enjoy it. Richly illustrated and ad-free, it focuses on what's new, how we know it, and why we should care. Even teachers in math-and-science-magnet schools love it!

This title has:

Great messages
Silver Springer
Silver Springer Adult
August 12, 2013
age 14+

For middle school and up, up, up

High school teachers also find the site useful--even for students in their advanced classes. When content is written well for a middle-school audience, it doesn't insult those who are older. That's why even community college profs like the content on this site. But middle-school teachers really appreciate that it speaks to their kids about amazingly current events, all without dumbing anything down.
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What’s It About?

Science News for Kids publishes science news articles for elementary and middle school kids. Topics are interesting and relevant, ranging from cool chemistry jobs to recycling organs. Science News for Kids also has support resources and extension activities to help readers understand the articles. The site also provides information for those who want to follow and get involved in youth science and math competitions. These include Intel Science Talent Search, Intel Science and Engineering Fair, and the Broadcom MASTERS.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (1 ):

Science News for Kids has engaging scientific text that's appropriate for elementary and middle school readers. It's a great source for kids who need practice analyzing and citing scientific text. Kids don't always love technical reading, but this site makes efforts to pick interesting topics like American cannibalism and predicting tsunamis.

When kids read about how a teen’s research has helped surgeons get a better view of cancer cells, they might be inspired to design their own experiment. There are a few resources, like a funny "Prepare for the Science Fair Cartoon" to help kids with do their own science fair projects. Unfortunately this portion of the site is less organized, making it hard to find what kids need.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can discuss how we know what we know. How do we come up with explanations for the world around us?

  • Families can also talk about the ways media typically portrays scientists. How do the student researchers from Science News for Kids challenge these stereotypes? Try using our resource, "Tips for Battling Stereotypes."

  • For families who love science and research, check out the local science fair. Maybe your kid will want to participate next time.

Website Details

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.

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