Video:Tips for Choosing an Online Dictionary for Kids

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Transcript:Tips for Choosing an Online Dictionary for Kids

Hi, I'm Kaytie Sproul, here for About.com, and today I'm going to give you some tips for finding a good online dictionary for kids.

Information About Various Online Dictionary for Kids

It's never too early to spark an interest in learning, and a dictionary is a valuable tool in that regard. Whether your child will be using it for school work, or is just curious, a good online dictionary is the first step in the right direction. A children's dictionary should strike the balance between possessing useful information and having accessibility.

Best Online Dictionaries for Kids

In both regards, the Yahoo Kid's Dictionary excels. Based on the American Heritage Dictionary, and featuring a fun and kid-friendly interface, the initial feel is one that will likely appeal to most children. The features are also appropriately useful. The dictionary offers both a comprehensive pronunciation guide, along with clickable audio pronunciations for most words.

Results returned feature everything from the definition of the word in question, to uses of the word in sample sentences, to informal and slang uses of the word. Another interesting and seemingly unique feature of the Yahoo Kids Dictionary, is the fact that word searches return results for the word in question, along with other possible variations. In this example, a search for the word "witness" returns what you would expect, along with witness box, and witness stand.

More Information About Choosing an Online Dictionary for Kids

Much like the Yahoo Kids Dictionary, the Word Central online dictionary from Merriam Webster, is a great learning tool designed for kids. With an easy-to-navigate interface, and fast result returns, this dictionary should be a hit with most kids. Word Central also features a pronunciation key and a clickable audio pronunciation. One note, the audio pronunciation opens in a new window, so make sure to disable your pop-up blocker. Word Central also features a daily buzzword and has a thesaurus option.

Notes About Choosing Online Dictionaries for Kids

For younger children seeking to use one of these online tools, there is the Little Explorers English Picture Dictionary. Interestingly, the interface on this dictionary is a little more cluttered and difficult to navigate. Words are ordered alphabetically and can be chosen in that fashion, or kids can select words by different classifications, such as "devices" or "furniture."

Each word has a correlating picture and short definition. Some words are clickable and feature the word being used in rhymes, a deeper history of the word, or crafts associated with the word. As it's likely that very young children will be the ones utilizing this dictionary, they'll most likely need a parent to help them navigate. Gone are the days of 20-volume encyclopedias and massive hardback dictionaries. With readily available Internet, children can access much of their learning tools, including some great dictionaries, online.

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