Homeschool technology podcast – Homeschooling with technology in the 21st century
Libraries aren’t just about books these days. Many public libraries now offer free internet access, DVD rentals, and online job searching services.
Libraries have had to adapt to increased demand from patrons due to the downturn in the economy while dealing with shrink budgets. Continue Reading…
SnapChat is a relatively new photo-sharing app that’s growing in popularity among teens. It’s currently the #2 app among free photography apps. With SnapChat, users can upload photos that self-destruct after being viewed.
In an article on Techcrunch, CEO Evan Spiegel said, “It seems odd that at the beginning of the Internet everyone decided everything should stick around forever. I think our application makes communication a lot more human and natural.”
While the intention of the app is to provide more privacy it’s also been targeted as an app that makes sexting easier for teens. Any social media platform can be used by teens and adults irresponsibly. It’s important that as parents we make informed decisions about what apps and websites we allow our children to use.
Personally, I wouldn’t allow my teenager to use SnapChat it seems too easy to hide your activity. Take a look at the inforgraphic below and do your own research and make an informed decision for yourself. Continue Reading…
Hacker scouts is a modern-day take on traditional scouting. Kids learn technology and DIY skills by making things with their hands. Kids earn patches for a variety of skills including: animation, gaming, sewing, rocketry, and more.
Kids earn these patches by completing tasks at DIY.org, a site designed for kids, that are displayed on their profile page. This looks like a great site for encouraging your kids to make, build, and learn. Who knows? Maybe you can start a hacker scout group of homeschoolers.
I like letting my kids use digital devices. When they play an educational game, read an e-book, or just have fun with my iPad I’m always aware of how much time they’re using the device. As cool as it is to know that my kids are into tech, I’m always making sure that they go outside. Here in the Northeast during Winter that can be difficult because sometimes it means I have to bundle up with them but knowing my kids are healthy and active gives me more joy than knowing that they’ve mastered a new level on Plants vs. Zombies.
via JT Splatmaster
When you look at many of the educational apps in the iTunes AppStore the majority of those apps are aimed at pre-schoolers, K-2nd grade, and highschool students. There’s a huge gap when it comes to older elementary and middle school students. Outhink in trying to change that with a Kickstarter to create STEM-based apps for 8-13 year old students.
Personally, I’ve found that many apps are either too easy or too hard for my 4 kids who are between the ages of 8 and 13. Let’s hope this project inspires others like Justin Hollady who created 5 Dice: Order of Operations Game and 4 Dice: Fraction Games targeted at this age group.
Do you think this age group is neglected when it comes to educational apps? What apps would you recommend for 8-13 year old kids? Let me know in the comments below.
