Fun Websites for Kids (and Parents Who Like to Play, Too!)

     It seems I'm the only member of the family who has any interest in visiting art museums.  This means I have not been in one in years!  A website recommended in the August 2010 issue of "FamilyFun" magazine has scratched that itch for me.  It also has a wide variety of art-related activities that will engage kids (and adults) with interactive fun.  At NGAkids Art Zone, you can manipulate actual works of art and try different special effects on them, creating your own printable image.  (Try giving George Washington hot pink eyebrows!)  You can visit and try it for yourself here:  http://nga.gov/kids/zone   (You will need to have Adobe Shockwave's latest version on your computer.  If you don't already have it, a free download is available at the site.  Be sure to uncheck the Google toolbar box if you don't want that installed at the same time, though!) 

      Another site recommended by FamilyFun magazine is Marilyn Scott-Waters' Toymaker website, where kids can choose from a variety of printable designs.  Making your own toys would be a great rainy-day boredom buster!  The artwork is charming with a vintage look.  It's really eye-catching and colorful.  Some that I'd like to try with my kids include the Koi Kites, Finger Puppets and Brownie Math Toys!  You can visit the website here and choose from a huge number of games and toys:  http://www.thetoymaker.com/2Toys.html  If you like what you see, you can also sign up for her newsletter, for monthly updates and more free printable toys!

     As mentioned, these websites were in the August 2010 issue of FamilyFun magazine.  You can visit their website for more terrific family projects here:  http://familyfun.go.com/magazine/

     Have a good time learning and exploring together!