Looking for facts and figures to teach your kids - or yourself - about U.S. government? The following resources were created for children,
but offer information for citizens of all ages.
The Three Branches
To learn about the system of checks and balances, start with
the three branches of government. The President, part of the executive
branch, offers history and fun trivia at the White House for Kids.
The Senate and
House of Representatives make up the legislative
branch. Each offers general information and a glossary of terms for young visitors.
The Federal Judiciary Homepage
offers insight into the U.S. court system, our judicial branch of government.
Government Agencies
Many agencies offer special sections for young citizens. Here are
a few of our favorites:
- At Ben's Guide to U.S. Government, students can learn about American history, how laws are made and symbols of the country.
- The Food and Drug Administration teaches children about animals, food safety, medical devices, tobacco and vaccines through interactive lessons and games.
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency teaches kids about what causes natural disasters and offers stories, games and homework help.
- The Department of Treasury includes a wealth of money-related info --
such as a savings bond calculator, information on how money is made and the truth behind income tax. The U.S. Mint offers information and games about coins.
- At the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration page, discover information about weather, climate change, earth science, oceanography and space.
- The Central Intelligence Agency offers news, games, and tips on crime detection and prevention. The Federal Bureau of Investigation offers similar information in two formats: FBI Kids (kindergarten-5th grade) and FBI Youth (6th-12th grades).
- NASA will give students a crash course in our solar system, black holes, comets and more.
- Learn how to protect the environment with EPA's Explorers' Club. This site explains recycling and offers games and art projects.
- If you need a historic document for a school assignment, head to Basic Readings in U.S. Democracy, You'll find important documents, including the Declaration of Independence and many Supreme Court decisions.
For a complete list of government sites for kids arranged by topic, see FirstGov for Kids. The Ingram Library offers a list of sites organized by agency.
--- R.M. and J.B.
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