It can be terribly difficult to be a parent right now. With news sources covering ISIS, political upheaval, and every kind of celebrity mishap, it feels like there are no good options for kids to see the news without falling prey to the next-new-now-fast-paced news. Kids are left with only vague impressions of the news without retaining specific details.  Luckily, Common Sense offers the best news sources for kids. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Tween Tribune: Designed with tweens in mind; comments are moderated and the website includes critical-thinking exercises. The topics cover a wide range of material, all audited to be appropriate for tweens.
• The Learning Network: The NY Times uses the news of the day to engage and educate kids (12 and older) on what is happening in the world.
• Scholastic Kids Press Corps: News filled website created by kids ages 9-14 from around the country.  Kids are encouraged to apply each year and are selected based on their writing and reporting skills.

As an extra bonus, I am re-sharing Common Sense’s blog on how to explain the news to your kids.

Have a wonderful week and don’t forget to use Common Sense!