Kids + Media

Regret Giving Your Kid a Cell Phone? Here’s What to Do

Once you’ve opened Pandora’s box, is it possible to close it again?

The False Promise of Device-Based Education

A reevaluation of screens in schools

10 Ways to Protect Your Child’s Brain From Daily Screen Time

These evidence-based strategies can prevent overstimulation from screen time

Must-Have Travel Toys for Road Trips With Kids

Creative and compact entertainment for stress-free family car adventures

Best Earth Day Movies for Kids

Robots, whales, owls and distant worlds will keep kids entertained and engaged on Earth Day

‘A Minecraft Movie’: Years in the Making and Still No Match for the Game

A big-screen build that doesn’t match the game’s creative spark

For Households With Kids, It’s Time to Bring Back the Landline

Encourage independence and connection with a house phone

Girl Powerful: 20+ Films With Super-Heroic Female Characters

Girl-power picks for family movie night

Beloved Oscar-Winning Films to Watch With Kids

Turn back the clock and pass the popcorn!

Proposed Bill Aims to Remove Cell Phones From Classrooms in Washington State

Lawmakers move to curb classroom distractions

Meet THEM: Seattle Band Has Been Rocking Together Since Middle School

Let’s just say their star is definitely on the rise

New 'Spectacular Specimens' Podcast Brings Burke Museum to Life

An irresistible blend of mystery and science made especially for kids

What the TikTok Ban May Mean for Families

Will banning one app have an impact?

How Jonathan Haidt Won the Fight Against Smartphones in Schools

Schools that have banned cell phones are seeing positive results

New Year, New Books: 10 Must-Reads for Kids

Healthy choices and trying new things are at the heart of these stories

Unlock Confidence and Creativity in Kids Through Entrepreneurship

Expert tips from the dad who founded Studentspreneur

5 YouTube Channels for Kids That Parents Can Feel Good About

Educational shows that spark curiosity for lifelong learners of all ages

The Best Weird Christmas Movies That Defy All Logic

Confuse and delight your family and friends this holiday season

Roblox Announces Updates to Safety Systems and Parental Controls

New changes will let parents see their child’s friends list, set spend limits and more

Top Editor Picks for Family Movie Night

Explore and celebrate Indigenous culture with these movies and shows

Parents, Do You Miss Live Shows? Is Your Kid a Budding Rockstar? Seattle Has Just the Place

Everything families need to know about how KEXP is making sure that music matters to the next generation

‘The Opt-Out Family’: How One Family Chose Being Present Over Tech

A former social media influencer shares her secret to raising tech-free kids

Big Changes to Instagram: Teen Accounts Are Here

Meta says changes will lead to a safer social media experience for kids

New Cell Phone Policies at Local Schools Reflect Concerns

The youth mental health crisis and learning loss fuel demand for clear phone policies

Powerful Books to Read During Banned Books Week

Some of the most challenged books of 2023

12 TEDx Talks by Seattle-Area Students to Spark Conversation With Kids

Ignite meaningful family and classroom discussions with these powerful short videos

Best New and Classic Board and Card Games for Family Game Night

Parent-tested board games and family-friendly food pairings

What Parents and Educators Need to Know About Teens’ Pornography and Sexting Experiences at School

Insights and strategies to keep kids safe and informed

Educational Apps That Get Kids School-Ready

From math to spelling, help kids feel prepared for the next school year

Smartphone Alternatives for Kids

Five smartphone alternatives to consider for your child

Must-Watch Movies and Shows About Going Back to School

From Nevermore Academy to Harvard Law, get ready to head back to class

How to Talk to Your Child About the New Emotions in ‘Inside Out 2’

Kids can learn to manage anxiety and other overwhelming feelings

Why Fighting a Phone-Based Childhood Matters

Dr. Laura Kastner responds to the best-selling book ‘The Anxious Generation’

Road Trip Movies the Whole Family Will Love

Hit the open road, seas or sky and enjoy the adventure with these fun, family films

Navigating Kids’ Privacy in the Digital Age

A conversation with Devorah Heitner, Ph.D.

How Much Money Would It Take for Teens to Give Up Social Media for One Month?

Our Seattle-area high school reporter talked with youth around the world and uncovered the surprising answer.

Surgeon General Calls for Social Media Warning Labels for Kids

New recommendations aim to mitigate youth anxiety and depression crisis

The Best LGBTQ Movies and TV Shows for Families

Cozy up for family movie night with one of these kid-friendly LGBTQ shows

Parenting Tweens as a Social Media Mom

South Seattle mom Reanne Gamet finds family balance tricky as her Instagram following climbs

Hands-On, High-Tech Parenting From Art Projects to Alexa

How Phinney Ridge dad Andrew Wilcox uses gadgets to make the most of offline family time

5 Reasons Your Child (and You!) Should Play Dungeons & Dragons

You’ve heard the hype, now it’s time to play!

Brilliant Books to Celebrate Women’s History Month in 2024

25+ children’s books about women and girls who have accomplished amazing and unexpected things

10+ Classic Books That Help Early Readers Learn About Friendship

Kids are never too young to understand and explore the foundations of friendship

The Best TV Shows and Movies Featuring Black Leads to Watch With Your Family

From cartoons to sitcoms to action movies, you’ll find something everyone will love

Students Combine Art and Technology to Help Build Self-Esteem

A positive take on tech and kids

Blast Off With Children’s Film Festival Seattle

Your guide to exploring the 2024 hybrid festival

Kid Shows You’ll Actually Want to Watch (Really)

Make TV time fun for the whole family again

2023 Big Gift Giveaway

Enter to win one of 21 fantastic prizes for Puget Sound families

Get Personalized Messages from Sesame Street Characters

Elmo and Cookie Monster join Cameo Kids

Kids’ Books That Share True Stories of Native People

“It is vital we read books that are tribally specific, include Native sovereignty and depict Native peoples as diverse people of today.”

What’s Coming to Netflix and Disney+ in November 2023

From monster movies, to talking lizards, to loveable cartoons

The Coolest Podcasts for Kids, According to ParentMap Editors

Parents can feel good about letting kids tune into these programs

What’s Coming to Netflix and Disney+ in October 2023

Shows featuring pirates, vampires, superheroes and more!

What You (and Your Child) Need to Know About ChatGPT

Understand the potential risks and rewards of generative AI

I Had a Helicopter Mom. I Found Pornhub Anyway

I Had a Helicopter Mom. I Found Pornhub Anyway

What’s Coming to Netflix and Disney+ in September 2023

Welcome the cool fall evenings with some cozy family entertainment

Manga Mania!

A local librarian’s prime picks for kids

Should School Days Be Phone-Free?

Can schools go completely phone-free (and should they)?

What’s Coming to Netflix and Disney+ in August 2023

From romance to defending the galaxy, August has shows to entertain the whole family

New Shows on Netflix and Disney+ in July 2023

Take a break and cool off with a fun family show

Drag Story Time

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers

New Shows on Netflix and Disney+ in June 2023

Kick back and enjoy the start of summer

New Shows on Netflix and Disney+ in May 2023

Slow down with a good show

7 Tips for a (Nearly) Tech-Free Vacation

How to wean your kids — and yourself — off screens

New Shows on Netflix and Disney+ in April 2023

Don't miss the mythical creatures, classic tales, and animated fun sure to entertain the whole family

A Parent’s Age-By-Age Guide to Screen Time

Be the screen-time superhero your kid needs

New Shows on Netflix and Disney+ in March 2023

Hop into spring with some new family entertainment

Find the Magic of Cinema at Children’s Film Festival Seattle

The must-watch films and shorts of this year’s fest

New Shows on Netflix and Disney+ in February 2023

Enjoy a cozy evening in with some great TV

7 Fantastic Fortnite Birthday Party Ideas

V-Buck Cookies, Campfire Cake and Chug Jugs are the perfect fuel for a Fortnite party

New Shows on Netflix and Disney+ in January 2023

New entertainment for the new year

Best Books of 2022 for Teens

The Seattle Public Library’s staff shares their favorite books of the year for teens

Best Books of 2022 for Kids

The Seattle Public Library’s staff shares their favorite kids books of the year

New Shows Coming to Netflix and Disney+ in November

Curl up and settle into winter weather with some fun new shows

New Shows Coming to Netflix, Hulu and Disney+ in October

Cozy up with these new tv shows and movies

New Shows Coming to Netflix, Hulu and Disney+ in August

What to watch when you need a break from all the summer fun

What to Watch: New Netflix Shows for Families This July

When you need a break from the sun, sea monsters and action heroes are here to entertain this summer

What to Watch: New Netflix Shows for Families This June

Brighten up your day with these new shows on Netflix

5 Ways to Help Kids Deal With Upsetting News

Age-based tips on how to talk to kids about tragic news events

Japanese TV Show ‘Old Enough!’ on Netflix: What’s the Fuss About?

Some facts get lost in translation, but parents can still learn from this entertaining show

What to Watch: New Netflix Shows for Families This May

Shows for a rainy day as we await the elusive Pacific Northwest summer

A ‘Morsel of Joy’: Seattle Children’s Theatre’s ‘Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!’

Bird with an existential crisis keeps kids and grown-ups laughing

Why School Libraries Need LGBTQ Books

‘It’s about giving students the opportunity and agency to choose’

Great New Podcast Recommendations for Kids and Families

Compelling world stories, humorous history, masterful storytelling and more

11 Subscription Boxes Your Kids Will Love

Keep creativity alive and make life easier with family-friendly subscription boxes

What Parents Need to Know About the Science of Screen Time and Children

What the latest research reveals about the impact of screen time on child development

Teaching Kids to Navigate the Information Superhighway

Rules of the road for kids and cell phones

Girl Scouts’ Online Programming Offers Unexpected New Benefits for All

New culturally relevant virtual programs boost access, equity

How to Help Your Tweens Safely Explore Sexuality Before They See Porn

Local sex educators offer tips and resources

Must-Watch TV Shows and Movies That Address Disability and Difference

Want to teach kids about empathy without preaching? Add these gems to your watch list

Screen Time You Can Feel Good About

Guilt-free movies, shows and YouTube channels that celebrate diversity, acceptance and empathy

How to Set Up a Makerspace on the Cheap

Turn trash into treasure and encourage kids' creative play

How to Teach Kids Media Literacy

A media literacy expert shares how schools and parents can help young people (and themselves) recognize and combat fake news

Great Diverse Reads From 2020

Put these fabulous books on your TBR pile STAT

Best ’80s Movies to Watch With Your Teens

Classic ’80s films with great stories and discussable, relatable scenarios

Virtual Reality for Family Education, Exercise and Entertainment

Easy and inexpensive ways for families to dip their toes into virtual reality tech for fun and fitness

Beyond Harry Potter: 12 Inclusive Fantasy Series To Read Instead

Middle-grade titles with magic like Harry Potter, but inclusive

Cyberbullying 101: Remote Learning Edition

How to recognize it and how to deal with it — whether your kid is the victim, at fault or a bystander

5 Smart Screen-Time Rules for Families

Put an end to screen-time battles

Considering a Phone for Your Kid? Enter This Giveaway!

Win a free phone + 6-month plan from Tello

Seattle Boy Wonder Releases a STEM Book That Kids Will Love

Q & A with Orion Razat, 10-year-old author of ‘101 STEM Jokes’

Cool Apps for Kids on the Autism Spectrum

These innovative apps can open doors to kids' learning

15 Online Classes for Kids to Keep Them Learning on Days Off

School's out? Here's how to keep them busy, learning and having fun

How I Got My Minecraft-Addicted Son to Start Reading

A local mom finds a genius way to help her kids read more

Summer TV You Can Feel Good About (With Activities!)

Guilt-free ways to entertain the kids

Now Online: Children’s Film Festival Seattle 2020

Mind-expanding feature films and shorts programs to watch at home

20 Best Podcasts for Families

Best part? They're screen-free

3 Steps to Improving the Quality of Your Kid’s Screen Time

You don't have to feel guilty about screen time

Best Media to Encourage Creativity in Kids

Instead of just watching and playing, your kids can become content creators

Beautiful Posters Encourage Families to Stay Strong

Free downloads from Seattle's Amplifier

10 Movie and Recipe Combos Serve Up Virtual Family Getaways

It's “spring break” from the couch with our family movie night ideas

Fantastic Virtual Field Trips for Seattle-Area Kids and Families

Tours, performances and more family “outings” to enjoy from the couch

7 Genius Ideas to Help Overcome the Loneliness of Social Distancing

Creative ways to increase fun, generosity and connection during the coronavirus crisis

Toddler TV Shows You Can Feel Good About

Age-appropriate shows your toddler will love

7 Fun and Educational Kid-Friendly Apps

Use screen time to teach 'em a lesson (or two)

43 Graphic Novels for Young Readers, From Toddlers to Teens

These graphic novels will jump start your child's reading

Have You Heard? 10 Must-Listen Podcasts for Tweens and Teens

Screen-free, educational and cool

Destiny City Film Festival for Families

5 best bets with kids at Tacoma's film fest this weekend

What You Should Know About Screens Before Handing Them to Your Kids

Family tips for navigating the digital world

6 Great Geek Conventions for Families

Cosplay, comics, science fiction and fantasy — geek out with your kids at these awesome cons

How to Foster Healthy Screen Habits

What 2019 research says about teens, tweens and their phones

How to Be a Better Digital Role Model for Your Kids

Tips for using your device intentionally

5 Ways to Get Your School to Teach Digital Manners and Skills

Resources to help nurture responsible digital citizens

What SCOTUS Hearings About LGBTQIA+ Rights Means for Your Kids

Are you talking to your child?

I Worry That Limiting My Kids' Screen Time Is Holding Them Back

Why I wish I'd introduced more tech tools sooner

Know the Real Dangers of Kids’ Screen Use

Three worries you can actually do something about

The Only Back-to-School Cell Phone Rules Your Kids Really Need

Simple, easy-to-follow rules for every phone-carrying kid

5 Ways to Bring Rules Back After Summer

Ease your kids back into the school year with fun end-of-summer media activities.

The Tech Tsunami Facing Education

Area schools are finding unique ways to ride the technology wave

Technology Access Is an Equity Issue in Education

Increasing digital access and opportunity for Seattle-area kids

Where Kids Find Hate Online

It's in more places than you think

Tips for Families Facing Hate Speech and Mass Shootings

Mass shootings. Hate speech. Racist rhetoric. Where do parents even begin?

How to Set Parental Controls on the Amazon Echo

Keep Alexa safe for kids with these quick tips and tricks

Balancing Act: Stimulating Screen-Time Activities That Complement Summer Play

One dad’s top tips for balancing constructive screen time with lo-fi outdoor play

Let's Get Real About Sexting

Why you need to have the conversation before its too late

Is It Okay to Read My Kids' Text Messages?

How to navigate cell phones, privacy and screen time as parents

Meet Daniel Tiger for Free This August!

Snap a photo with Daniel at free "Be My Neighbor" events

A Key Message for Parents From the ‘Stranger Things’ S3 Finale

Hopper’s final words to Eleven capture the wisdom of raising teens

7 Surprising Apps Kids Can Use to Chat With Friends

Are they really doing homework?

10 Parenting Lessons I Learned from Game of Thrones

The popular show is over, but the learning doesn't have to be

'13 Reasons Why' — A Seattle Psychologist's Take

Laura Kastner, Ph.D., offers this advice

How to Teach Achievement in a Digital World

Can our kids’ screen obsessions prepare them for the future?

The Evolution of Parental Controls

Monitoring vs. mentoring kids’ media use in the digital age

5 Skills We're Losing Because of Tech (and What to Do About It)

Is tech ruining our manners?

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube

Everything you need to know about kids and YouTube

The Surprising Diagnosis Caused by Kids' Screen Time

And parents' creative solutions to keeping kids unplugged

Books to Read Before They're Movies in 2019

Read these awesome books before they come to the big screen

It's Not About the Momo Challenge

It shouldn't take a viral prank to get us worried about what kids see and do online

13 Apps for Kid Scientists

The best iPhone, iPad and Android science apps for all ages

9 Ways to Make Family Movie Night Outta Sight

Ultra-creative ideas for planning a blockbuster movie night at home

This Dad Is Cofounding a Gaming and Media Convention for the Neurodiverse Community

Meet Ben Wahl

Gillette's New Must-Watch Ad Will Give You All the Feels

“Is this the best a man can get?”

Top Reads for 2019 for Every Age

A Seattle-area bookstore owner's top picks for your reading list this year

Are You a Distracted Parent?

Why looking at your phone when the kids are around actually matters

So, Your Kid Wants to Be a YouTuber?

You need these tips

The History of a Hero at Seattle Children's Theatre

The early life of athlete and activist Muhammad Ali

Is Your Kid Media Literate? Are You?

3 tips for raising kids who understand what they're seeing

Take the Kids to See 'Hocus Pocus' This Halloween

Get your $5 tickets for the cult classic's 25th anniversary

How To Talk To Your Kids About Consent

Laura Kastner, Ph.D., offers this advice for talking to your kid about consent

Camera-Shy Child With Autism Has Best Family Photo Shoot Ever

Rawr

Apple's Screen Time Will Make Me Less of a Parenting Hypocrite

There's no hiding now

Don't Let Your Kids Be Rude to Alexa

Use these ground rules to help inform your family's conversations with AI assistants

54 Percent of Teens Say They Spend Too Much Time on Their Phones

Two surveys look at how teens and parents feel about devices

Why This Dad Lets His Kid Play Fortnite

The pros and cons of Fortnite and a very useful tip for parents

Caspar Babypants Releases 15th Album (Yes, Really!)

"Keep It Real" comes out August 17 with two free shows on the horizon

Raising a Transgender Child

Seattle mom Marlo Mack shares her experience

What ‘Eighth Grade’ Taught Me About Parenting a Middle Schooler

The reminder we all need when parenting a tween

6 Websites to Keep Kids Sharp Over the Summer

Use tech to fight summer slide (yes, really)

I Regret the First Photo I Sent of My Daughter

New parents, don't repeat my mistake

What Makes 'Incredibles 2' Truly Super

The newest Pixar movie celebrates parenting

At What Age Is It Smart to Give Your Child a Smartphone?

"Kids are no longer socializing and connecting face to face."

Discussing Violence With Your Child

An age-by-age guide

Want Them Off Their Phones? Get It In Writing

Draft up a family tech contract before summer break begins

Sizzling Apps to Stop Summer Slide

Smart apps so fun they won't know they're learning

New Study Shows Which Apps Are Best for Your Kid

What to look for when it comes to digital fun

Big News in Local Toy Stores

What's next for these local favorites?

A Millennial Mom’s Response to Social Media Haters

"Evidently, it’s not super-duper neat to you that I grew a person inside of my body."

Why Your Teen Is Stoked About Bumbershoot 2018

Tickets go on sale Friday

A 12-Year-Old Boy (And His Family) Do the Impossible

A two-month fast from video games

Don't Disregard Your Kid's Love of Fanfiction

It's about representation.

The Boy Code and Toxic Masculinity

We need to help boys develop a full repertoire of social and emotional skills

The Sneaky Science Behind Your Kid’s Tech Obsessions

The first step toward resisting the pull of digital products

I Ask My Kids Before I Post Photos of Them

It's about consent

Think You Know What Your Teens Do Online? Think Again

A new survey shows a surprising gap between perception and reality

Parents Have More of a Tech Problem Than Kids

We can't just talk the talk

What Your Preschooler Should Be Watching

When you're 2 or 3, every show is a new one

7 Apps Every College Student Needs

Get peace of mind when your college students are away from home

Your Kids Will Love the New ‘Star Wars’ Even If You Don’t

Don't let the haters stop you from seeing this movie

Rap Clean Enough for Kids

A music writer's top 10 picks for family hip-hop

The Growing Threat to Your Kids Online

How to keep your kids safe

9-Year-Old Girl Books Dream Trip While Dad Naps

Her parents say she was too sorry to punish

Donald Trump Is My Baby's First Bully

One mom's advice: Make it a teachable moment

Reese Witherspoon Got It Wrong About Mommy Bloggers

This is about lifting all women up

5 Best Election Day Reads for Kids

Help your kids learn about democracy, civil rights and the Constitution

Is My Kid Too Young for a Cell Phone?

When you're sick of hearing 'but all my friends have phones!'

Why Are Teens Live Streaming Suicide?

The link between self-harm and internet usage

Talking to Kids About Rape and Sexual Assault

Helpful advice for talking about rape with your sons and daughters

How to Talk to Your Kids About the NFL Protests

Here's how to explain the protests in ways your kids will understand

5 Movie-Themed Snacks for Your Next Family Movie Night

These easy recipes will have your kids cheering

Macklemore's New Album is a Love Letter to Fatherhood

'Gemini' dropped Thursday night

The Teen Anxiety Epidemic

Social media is here to stay but at what cost?

"Llama Llama" is the Parenting Rap You've Always Wanted

Ludacris rapped the popular children's book during a radio appearance

5 Awesome Seattle Design Fest Events for Families

Interactive activities get kids in touch with design

Thousands Descend on Downtown Seattle for Annual Gaming Festival

Come for the people-watching, stay for the indie games

Could You Be Making This Common Cultural Mistake?

Understanding cultural appropriation with art and kids

When the White House Says C*ck

How (and why) to talk to kids about presidential profanity

Should You Take Kids to SAM's Super-Hot Summer Exhibit?

There are lines everywhere, and you can't touch, but yes

'Game of Thrones': What to Recommend When Your Kid Wants to Watch, Too

You love GoT but it's not exactly family-friendly. Try these 10 tamer alternatives

8 Ways to Have More Fun as a Family

You'll want to save these ideas

Is There Such a Thing as Good Tech Play?

Because screens aren't going anywhere

Free STEM Summer Camps and Programs Around Seattle

High-tech, low-cost ways for kids to learn cool skills

An Open Apology Letter to Amazon's Alexa

"Is it possible to startle a robot? I think we did."

Why You Shouldn't Not See 'Wonder Woman'

It doesn't go far enough but is still worth seeing

Comey for Kids

How the Comey hearings changed my parenting approach

Behind the Scenes at This Seattle Parenting Podcast

Jama'l Chukueke on what inspired Diversity Dad

A Seattle Dad You Should Know

The Seattle dad takes it one podcast at a time

Pages for Prizes: Summer Reading Programs in Puget Sound

Library and bookstore programs to spark the reading fire in everyone

6 Family-Focused Tips for Music Festival Season

Don't hit a sour note

Muppet Mania! MoPop Celebrates Jim Henson

Muppet exhibit extended through Sunday, Feb. 25

The Pokémon Go Autopsy

UW research study looks behind the worldwide phenomenon

5 Conversations to Have After '13 Reasons Why'

Have you seen this new Netflix show?

Sexual Assault and Social Media

Tough conversation that you need to have

Meet Sesame Street's New Character

Sesame Workshop talks about the classic show's new puppet

Meet 2017 Superhero Ranae Holland

A Q&A with a research biologist and the host of 'Finding Bigfoot'

Get Inspired By These Photos of Young Girls Being Awesome

"Strong Is the New Pretty" captures confidence on camera

Half of Kids Say They Can't Tell Fake News Stories From Real Ones

A new survey asked children 10 to 18 what they make of news

5 Conversations to Have After 'Beauty and the Beast'

What to expect from the Disney reboot

8 Gender-Bending Apps and Games for Kids

Gender isn't always simple (and that's worth celebrating)

Diabetes in the Digital Age

Parent use tech tools to drive innovation

5 Reasons Why Play Is So Important, As Explained By Experts

The University of Washington shares new research on the importance of play

All Hands on Tech: Living Computers Reopens

Paul Allen’s computer collection becomes a 'petting zoo' for geeks that's fun for all

11 Apps That Encourage Empathy

Screentime just got better with these app ideas

It's Elementary! Kid-size Mysteries Budding Detectives Will Love

Winter is the perfect time for young sleuths to test out their skills with a modern-day mystery

Why Your Gaming Kid Won’t Be Able to Stop Talking About VR

Prepare for this to be on the next gift list

3-D Printers: A Maker Family Essential?

5 questions posed to the 3D Printing Nerd

Drones Without Loans: Save Money on the 3 Hottest Tech Items This Year

Get your hands on the latest kid-approved and family tech

What to Do When Your Child Sees Porn on the Internet

Face it: Your kid will see porn

3 Interactive Tech Trends That Will Make You Healthier

Get happier and healthier through "telemedicine"

Is Your Child Screenwise?

Digital citizenship expert Devorah Heitner shares how to raise digital natives

Local Educator Talks Screen Time: 3 Habits for a Healthier Family

That constant question: How much screen time is too much screen time? One educator's advice on developing healthy technology habits in kids

Make the Internet Safer for Your Kid With These Easy Browser Hacks

3 smart tweaks can mean a more kid-friendly online experience

6 Research-Backed Sites and Apps That Can Boost Your Kid's Report Card

Improve academic performance with free and low-cost tools that strengthen reading and math skills

The Most Awesome ‘Hamilton’ Clips to Share With Your Hamilteens

9 super-cool video clips and extraordinary facts about Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revolutionary musical

'Captain Underpants' Author Talks New Book, Getting Kids to Read and the Return of 'Caveman'

Bainbridge Island-based author and illustrator Dav Pilkey shares his latest work

Do Colleges Google Students?

Navigating college admissions in the age of social media

How Board Games Help Kids Build Social Savvy

A gaming group that feels like play, not work

Local Author’s New Series Features Protagonist With Autism

Seattle's Margaret Chiavetta on why we need more fictional characters with special needs

13 Games That Teach Empathy

Introduce these apps, games and websites to inspire and teach

New App Aims to Make the School Lunchroom a Friendlier Place

A 16-year-old invites everyone to the table

8 Books to Read During Banned Books Week 2016

Fight censorship and share these banned books, discussing topics from LGBTQ rights to sexual assault

PAX West 2016: Expect Your Game-Loving Kid to Want This Soon

The annual gaming event in Seattle put virtual reality front and center

A Parenting Expert's 4 Steps to Resolve Conflict Between Teen Girls

Help your tween or teenage daughter help herself

Citizen Science: Kids Take Learning Into Their Own Hands

Bird tracking, squirrel monitoring and more

Learning Differences Hit the Road in New Documentary

The 1-hour 'Being You' Road stars the struggles, successes and self-acceptance of three young adults

Everything You Need to Know About Parental Controls

Simple content filters to robust network solutions — learn the basics when managing media at home

12 Back-to-School Apps Perfect for Kids With Learning and Attention Issues

Many aspects of school can be tricky for kids with special needs, but these can help

‘Don’t Leave Me!’ Best Books for Easing Separation Anxiety

4 books that will help when your child fights drop-off

Learning to Love Middle School: Meet the 'Before' Project

50 cool kids make their on-screen debut

'Elena of Avalor': Disney’s Latest Misguided Attempt to Diversify

Why the newest princess perpetuates the mispronunciation of culture

I Choose You, Pikachu!

What Pokémon Go did for one Seattle family

5 Questions to Ask Before You Get Your Kid a Phone

Make sure your child (and you!) are ready for this

6 Apps to Get Kids Outside This Summer

Try these clever apps to encourage outdoor adventures

Pop the Popcorn! Our Top 8 Family Movie Night Articles

Break out of the (DVD) box with these creative suggestions

8 Books for Reluctant Readers to Try This School Year

Turn your kids into bookworms with these fun and relatable reads

Why 'The Angry Birds Movie' Took Flight: Interview With Producer John Cohen

As the movie adaptation launches into summer box-office success, Cohen shares the story behind the screen

Your 2016 Summer Movie Guide

Find out which kid, tween and teen flicks to see and which to skip

10 Best STEM Apps for Middle and High School Students

From coding to frog dissections, these apps make STEM fun for tweens and teens

6 Weeks to a Smartphone-Friendly Family: Week 6

Even with good rules, sometimes you need a 'digital detox.' Here are 8 ways to make it happen

Girls and Gaming: How to Play Safely

Girls are much more likely than boys to be targets of attacks while gaming; here’s what they can do

Teen Driving: Apps to Keep Your New Driver Safe

Terrified by the thought of your kid going for a spin? Tech to the rescue

50 Percent of Teens Feel Addicted to Their Phones, Says New Report

Common Sense Media surveyed 1,200 parents and teens. Here's what they found

Star Wars: An Age-by-Age Guide to the Whole Universe

Use these recommendations when introducing your kids to Luke, Leia and the whole gang

An Open Letter to Teen and Tween Girls About 'Like' Culture

An excerpt from Jo Langford's new book 'Spare Me The Talk: Girls' gives straight talk to girls on navigating social media

Meet Pogo: The Uber for Kids

Seattle startup raises $1 million for tech to make carpooling easier for parents

9 Books to Read With Kids Before You See the Movies in 2016

These characters make the leap from page to screen this year and will help your children love literature

How Has Social Media Changed Teen Girls' Lives?

Author Nancy Jo Sales discusses her new book, 'American Girls'

3 Places Families Should Make Phone-Free

Take back family time and set an example for your kids by creating tech-free zones

I Have a Weekly Game of Thrones Parenting Heart Attack

Parental viewing guide: Deny, deny, deny

Emoji Shakespeare?! Introducing Classic Literature to Your Kids

Should you worry about board book Bard and graphic novel Dickens? The experts weigh in.

Is Your Baby a Musical Prodigy? Yes!

How to improve your baby's intellectual, linguistic and emotional growth through music

5 Conversations to Have With Your Kids After 'The Jungle Book'

Get the conversation started about Disney's latest movie

Parenting 2.0: It's About More Than Your Own Family

Helping kids balance online lives with empathy matters more than ever

6 Weeks to a Smartphone-Friendly Family: Week 5

Do you put your own phone away during these moments? You should, because your kids notice.

Co-Parenting Conundrum: Managing Media With Your Ex

6 tips for managing screen-time limits for TV, movies and video games

Listen Up: The Best Podcasts and Storytelling CDs for Bedtime, Downtime, Car Rides and More

Hit play on these options to keep your kids (and you!) entertained for hours of easy listening

9 Video Game Heroines to Inspire Your Daughter

More and more video games are featuring strong female characters — here are 9 who are worthy of your bold, brave and awesome daughter

The Massive Monkees' Path to a World Breakdancing Championship, Now on Film

A new documentary celebrates Seattle's famed breakdance crew Massive Monkees and its impact on youth

'Appy' Online Campers?

Virtual camps promise an experience that’s affordable, educational and social

We Need to Get Real About Screens and Kids, and You Will With 'Screenagers'

Violent video games are diluting kids' empathy; smartphones are causing withdrawal symptoms similar to gambling addictions. Yet screens are here to stay, so how do we deal with them?

New at Pacific Science Center: Epic National Parks IMAX and Fast-moving Math

Add a trip to the Artists at Play playground and you've banished the drear

6 Weeks to a Smartphone-Friendly Family: Week 4

Stop worrying — not all news about smartphones and technology is bad

How to Make the Gift of Reading Even More Fun

Having trouble getting your child to read? A teacher shares her secret weapon

The Story of Autism: A Conversation With Author Caren Zucker

In light of a recent appearance by the authors at Town Hall, we sat down with Caren Zucker, co-author of 'In a Different Key: The Story of Autism'

Film Screenings: 'Screenagers'

Enjoy this documentary about screen time and families

'Beyond Measure': Exploring Alternatives to Standardized Testing

A new film highlights the education revolution brewing at Garfield High School and other public schools across the nation

Start a Foreign-Movie Habit With Your Kids

Add education and cultural competency to your family movie night

See 48 Countries in 11 Days at the Children's Film Festival Seattle

Two full weekends of the world’s best new kids’ movies, in Seattle and Renton

6 Weeks to a Smartphone-Friendly Family: Week 3

You've decided your tween is ready for a cell phone — now it's time to create a smartphone contract, without the drama

The Reel Deal: Films That Explore Food

9 family-friendly movies about food

Body Building: 8 Books That Help Kids Build a Healthy Body Image

Try giving your teen one of these books

It's a Magical World: 7 Essential Parenting Lessons From 'Calvin and Hobbes'

On the 20th anniversary of the famed comic strip's end, a mother rediscovers the towhead and his tiger, but this time it's the parents she's watching

Parenting Lecture, One Click Away

Seattle parenting lecture on internet safety for kids

Best Space-Adventure Movies to Rent Beyond 'Star Wars'

From 'Guardians of the Galaxy' to a silent-movie-era film, the best space-adventure movies for families

Watch Sony Pictures' 'Concussion,' Then Talk With Your Kid About the Brain

Hard-hitting Will Smith movie opens up opportunities for a lifesaving conversation

6 Weeks to a Smartphone-Friendly Family: Week 2

You've decided your tween is ready for a cell phone — now what? Learn about common apps, social media etiquette and more

'Star Wars,' Smell-o-Vision and Sing-alongs: Unique Movie Experiences for December

Get Jedi training for your kids, show off your 'Princess Bride' knowledge, do a December drive-in and more,

Just In: Does Your Home Library Measure Up? Not If It's on a Kindle

Where did all the books and CDs go? New research says our kids are missing out

For the Teen Who Has Everything: The Badass Feminist Coloring Book

Seattle-area feminist writer, mom and social media activist Ijeoma Oluo was driven to create a coloring book like no other

Holiday Gifts and Stocking Stuffers for Musical Kids

Toddler-friendly punk, starter synthesizer, awesome music-making app and more

6 Hum-worthy CDs to Help Families Survive the Holidays

Canned Christmas music, begone! Freshen up your holiday collection with these fun CDs kids will love

Vroom Vroom: App to Help Develop Babies' Brain Power Is Taking Off

Program offers parents a toolbox of tips to boost kids’ capacity to learn while promoting parent-child bonding

She Sees You When You're Sleeping, She Knows When You're Awake

This holiday season, advocates say you should say 'hell no' to Hello Barbie's artificial intelligence

6 Weeks to a Smartphone-Friendly Family: Week 1

Is your child ready for their first smartphone? You'll know once you bone up on teen brain research and check your timing

Just In: The Screen-Zombie Apocalypse Is Here

A new census shows tweens and teens clocking a full work day's worth of screen time

Is Your Child Addicted to Screen Time? Are You?

Your brain on screens: how to set screen-time limits, model good tech behavior and ensure your family doesn't develop a screen addiction

Someone You Should Know: Katie Headrick Taylor

UW professor Katie Headrick Taylor, who studies digital and spatial literacy in kids, shares her thoughts on screen time and healthy technology engagement

Blended Learning: Opening Opportunities and Changing the Way Kids Learn

How online learning tools like Khan Academy are gaining popularity and reshaping education

Oh Snap! What's That New App?

With so many new apps on the market and trending among teens, here's what you need to know to keep your kid safe: a Q&A with Katie Greer, an internet safety trainer

10 Dos and Don’ts for Parents of First-Time Cell Phone Users

Experts weigh in on what to do — and what not to do — when your child gets his or her first cellphone

Need a Media Mentor? Head to the Library!

Do you have questions and concerns about your child's tech needs and usage? Your local librarian is here to help — here are 5 things you need to know

7 Films That Address Disability, Differences and Inclusion

Want to teach kids about empathy without preaching? Add these gems to your movie-night list

Constitution Crash Course: We the Editors Pledge Your Kids Will Love ...

These interactive online tools and Hollywood blockbuster that explore U.S. history and are fun, too

8 Movies That Might Be Better Than the Book

From 'Charlotte's Web' to 'Little Women'

6 Apps to Put the World at Your Kids’ Fingertips

Does your child love using a smartphone or tablet? Put that interest to good use with these 6 global-focused apps on world cultures, geography, and exploration!

Ask the Experts: How Do I Manage My Child's Access to Internet When She's at a Friend's House?

How do I set Internet boundaries and keep my child safe from inappropriate or traumatic content, even when they're not at home?

Is the Flipped Classroom the Future of Education?

How digital lessons at home and homework in class is turning the conventional classroom on its head

We Are Never, Ever, Ever Breaking Up With Taylor Swift

A mother's review of the ultimate mom/daughter concert bonding experience

Imagine Cup and Coding Programs Push Kids and Youth Forward in STEM

Microsoft's global college competition brings top ideas forward; year-round coding classes give kids as young as 8 access to mentors and software

Learn to 3-D Print in an Afternoon at Maker Mondays

Kids get tech-creative at Future of Flight Aviation Center and maker spaces around Puget Sound

Kids Need to Know That 'Divorce is the Worst'

A review of the new children's book 'Divorce is the Worst' and Q & A with author and illustrator Anastasia Higginbotham

Are You Letting Your Kids Go Too Wild in the Tech Jungle?

What you need to know about kids and the digital world, from risks and realities to guidelines by age and stage

Want to Get Your Kids to Talk Emotions? Take Them to See 'Inside Out'

Pixar's standout new film dives into the mind of an 11-year-old girl, and her feelings

How to Raise a Wild Child: Q&A with Scott Sampson of 'Dinosaur Train'

Tools for combating the indoor migration of kids and fostering childhood-changing nature connection

In Disney’s ‘Cinderella,’ Courage and Kindness are a Victim’s Strengths, but a Film’s Weakness

A children's media expert examines the empowerment message

Gateway Books: Can 'Bad' Books Inhibit Literacy?

More on the debate about exposing kids to quality literature versus comics and mainstream reads

'Twilight' Worries Me More Than '50 Shades of Grey'

One mother and avid reader shares her concerns about the themes found in both books and movies

6 Adult Dating Apps Teens are Using Too

Everything you need to know about popular adult dating apps (like Tinder!) and how to keep your teen safe

Video Games: Friendly Alternatives to Rated-M Titles

The 10 most violent video games of 2014 and what to play instead

Ask The Experts: Social Media and Teens

Helping teens find a healthy balance with social media

6 Programming Apps for Curious Kids

Give your kids an early boost to their STEM, logic and problem-solving skills!

For the Hate of the Game

A mom's struggle to explain Ray Rice and his assault charges to her 10-year-old football player

Someone You Should Know: Microsoft's Lori Forte Harnick

General Manager for Citizenship & Public Affairs at Microsoft, Including the Microsoft YouthSpark Initiative

The World is Watching: Teens and Online Privacy

Tips on helping teens navigate the world of Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites sensibly and safely

Choose Your Own Adventure: Graphic Novels for Kids and Teens

Graphic novels starring kids: The perfect gifts for tweens and teens

Doing Good: Gender Expression and Children's Books

A funding campaign aims to help publish a kids' story that spreads awareness

No Bias For Babies: Our Favorite Anti-Bias Reads for Tots

A collection of children's books that promote tolerance, equality, diversity and understanding

Get SMAHRT

What we learned at Seattle Children’s debut conference on adolescents and social media

Save Our Superheroes

Times have changed, but have comics?

8 Reasons to Go to Imagine Cup Day at Seattle's MOHAI

World-class student inventions, mad science, MOHAI and more – for free

Screen Time Isn't Always Bad for Kids

Why reading to your child — on paper or on a screen — can help with literacy

Please, No More Video Games Today

Trying to tackle screen-time limits for kids

Eight Reasons We Don't Allow Our Tweens to Have Cell Phones

Summer 2014 Book Roundup

Keep your kids reading: Irresistible new summer book releases for tots to teens

Unrated

How to talk with teens about pornography

Phoning It In

How does our device obsession affect our tweens?

SeaWorld, Killer Whales, 'Blackfish' and Kids

How one documentary might change your family ethics around animal watching

Best Online Parenting Class: 9 Options to Get You Learning

We could all use a little expert advice when it comes to parenting. Here are online classes that'll help

Teaching the Tough Things: Kids' Books on the Holocaust, Apartheid and Slavery

10 Children's Books That Break Gender Stereotypes

Screen Struggles: A Day to Unplug

National Day of Unplugging allows parents to be role models and kids to build self-control

Cross-Cultural TV: 8 Kids’ Educational Series from Around the World

Spy Game: Should We Track Our Kids with Tech?

These days, there’s an app for that

Oscar Animated Feature Predictions and Must-Sees

Take Home the Gold With These 6 Winter Olympics Apps

Digital Delete Button: Should We Erase Kids' Social Media Mistakes?

Advocacy Group Calls Out Fischer-Price Apptivity Seat

Critics say toys with built-in iPad holders are innapropriate for babies' brain development

From Phone to Doorstep: 9 Apps to Send Cards or Gifts Over Long Distance

Photo and greeting apps help kids and family stay connected to grandparents and loved ones

7 Apps for Kids to Learn About the Civil Rights Movement and Martin Luther King Jr.

From a recording of MLK's 'I Have a Dream' speech to an app that lets kids ride with Rosa Parks, we round up the best tech-fueled teaching tools

Why Teens Love "Frozen"

5 Outdoor-Adventure Movies Kids Love

6 Apps to Score Family Football Fun

On the Road: Learning to Read in the Car

Go Outside and Play

Parent to Parent Video: Take Amazing Holiday Photos

Book Review: 'Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain'

Play Date: Erin McKittrick, Mother, Adventurer and Author of 'Small Feet, Big Land'

Girls Rising: The Biggest Risk to Young Girls Is...

Get Your Geek On: GeekGirlCon Preview

Parent to Parent Video: The Miley Effect

Parent to Parent Video: Keeping Tech-Savvy Kids Safe

Sexy Halloween Costumes: The Trick's on Us

Doing Good: A Conversation With My Daughter About Empowering Girls

Are Your Kids Safe and Smart Online? You Might be Surprised

Teenworthy: One Way You Should Go Old School

Parent to Parent Video: Why Back-to-School Shopping Matters

Why Are We So Obsessed With Baby Names?

Marketing Soda to Kids: Curb the Carbonation

Teenworthy: Pics, Vids, Snaps

Parent to Parent: Unplug and Reconnect with Family

Book Review: 'Ruminations from the Minivan'

Teenworthy: Memes, We Got Yer Memes

Review: Baseball Book for Girls

Book Review: Nature Poems for Children

What is Brave? Philosophy and Great Children's Literature

The Push-Pull of Sheryl Sandberg’s "Lean In"

5 Awesome Books to Help Kids Deal With a Big Move

Ease the stress of moving with these sweet and helpful books

Photographing Your Family, Part 3: Lighting

Seven-Year-Old on a Diet? Weighing in on Dara-Lynn Weiss’ New Book, "The Heavy"

Photographing Your Family, Part 2: Composition

You Ain’t Slick and I Ain’t Stupid: A Book Review

A Parent's Book Review: "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate"

Everyone Can Be an Astronaut! Review of New Space Shuttle Trainer Exhibit at the Museum of Flight

I Like My Robots With a Little Zombie, a Little Frankenstein, and Definitely Some Pie

End of Men? What About Our Boys?

'A Kid's Guide to Birding': Interview with 13-Year-Old Author Lorenzo Rohani

Is Your Child's Sippy Cup Half Full or Half Empty?

Why I Love Ivy and Bean (And Why I'm Counting Down to Their 9th Book)

Two Brothers’ Book Reviews: “Vanilla Gorilla” and “Captain No Beard”

Admit It: You Like Princesses, Too (a Book Review)

The City Dump Will Never Be the Same: A Patches Pal Remembers J.P.

Review: Words + Numbers = 1derful “Wumbers”

Cookbook Giveaway: Bi-Rite Creamery's 'Sweet Cream and Sugar Cones'

Five Children's Books that Can Help Kids Sleep

Cookbook Review: Bi-Rite Creamery's 'Sweet Cream and Sugar Cones'

Review: Favorite Baseball Books for All Ages

A Mother and Daughter's Hiking Quest: Author Q&A with Patricia Ellis Herr

Kid-Friendly Recipe: Ravioli Lasagna from "The Muffin Tin Cookbook"

Book Review: "The Urban Farm Handbook"

Kid-Friendly Recipe: Chicken Vegetable Soup From "The Whole Foods Kosher Kitchen"

Kids' Book Review: "Piggy Bunny" by Rachel Vail

Book Review: "Some Assembly Required" by Anne Lamott