Links for Parents
These are sites that Free Spirit editors, staff, and authors visit and recommend. While some have members-only sections, all have ample information that is free and accessible to anyone. If you know of a useful site for parents and families that isn’t listed here, please email us the URL, tell us why you like the site, and we’ll review it for possible inclusion.
We have carefully reviewed the links placed in this section for content and availability, and continue to do so at regular intervals. We care about young people’s safety and have only selected the most stable and reputable sites. However, the Internet is a constantly changing place, and Free Spirit Publishing is not responsible for the content found at these or related sites and cannot guarantee they are currently active. Parents, teachers, and other adults: We strongly urge you to monitor children’s use of the Internet.
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| It’s tough talking with our children about sex—especially if we didn’t grow up in an environment where that subject was discussed. This site offers accurate, up-to-date information and resources that will help you start talking with your children about sex and sexuality, values, and healthy decisions. Includes growth and development guidelines, advice from leading experts, and exercises to help you begin. |
| http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/parents |
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| Have you ever wondered if your child is gifted—or if your child is highly gifted? The Davidson Institute’s Database is a gateway to all kinds of information about giftedness for parents, educators, and anyone who cares about bright, intelligent young people. Learn how gifted-friendly (or not) your state is; read a blog about gifted children, schooling, parenting, and changing American education for the better; search for the latest news about gifted children; and more. |
| http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/Article/Davidson_Database___Overview_415.aspx |
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| Listen in as Annie Fox, M.Ed., author of the Middle School Confidential™ series and Too Stressed to Think?, provides practical parenting advice through conversations with authors, educators, and therapists. Dynamic discussions help strengthen family connections with tips, insights, and practical tools for guiding your kids through middle school and beyond. |
| http://www.anniefox.com/fc.html |
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| Created and maintained by the mother of gifted kids, this comprehensive and respected site has long been a destination for parents, educators, gifted kids, and gifted teens. Look here for definitions, articles, book lists, essays, information on tests and testing, a shopping guide (“gifts for the gifted”), and much more. |
| http://www.hoagiesgifted.org |
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| A huge hub of links to information and tips for doing research projects and daily assignments. Organized by grade level, then subject area; your search narrows as you select from General Sites, Today’s News, Topics, Quick Reference, and Fun. |
| http://www.homeworkspot.com |
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| Click on “For Parents” for articles about learning disabilities. Other helpful sections include “Assessment and Evaluation,” “Special Education” (an overview of options and resources), “Mental Health” (tips and guidelines), and “Early Childhood.” If you’re new to LD, click on “LD Basics.” |
| http://www.ldanatl.org |
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| Articles, research, and information on the latest trends in gifted education. Learn about enrichment programs, read position papers, keep current on legislative updates, and download a toy list. Click on “Parent Information” for more. |
| http://www.nagc.org |
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| Free publications and a wealth of information on alcohol and other drugs, prevention, and recovery; mental health; communicating with kids; and more. From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). |
| http://store.samhsa.gov/home |
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| When parents are involved in their children’s education, children do better in school. Visit this site to find the NEA’s popular guides for parents on helping kids with reading, math, and science; getting involved in your child’s school; understanding testing; and more. Includes links to other reputable sites. |
| http://www.nea.org/home/index.html |
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| Tips, checklists, and FAQs about child safety in the home, car, and community; information on the latest research and public policies. A Media Center offers news releases, archived interviews, public service announcements, and information on product recalls. |
| http://www.safekids.org |
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| Lists and descriptions of award-winning books. The “Doing & Learning” menu leads to “Ideas for Learning” (games and tips to inspire and stimulate your child), “Activities and Exploration” (project ideas for your family or community), and an “Article Archive” with information about early reading, art and music, science and nature, family outings, and more. |
| http://www.parents-choice.org |
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| Search Institute has identified 40 Developmental Assets all kids need in their lives—good things like family support, a caring neighborhood, and resistance skills. This research-based organization’s site offers resources for parents, educators, and community leaders. Click on Families for information on their latest studies, and More Information for archived articles and reports. |
| http://www.search-institute.org |
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