Kazumi Reads

FunBrain.com - The Internet's #1 Education Site for K-8 Kids and Teachers. (n.d.). Retrieved November 23, 2010, from http://www.funbrain.com/

This website not only contains cool games and web comics, it actually will help 'tweens with homework and build Math and Reading skills. This website is a great combination of fun and education where 'tweens can actually enjoy learning. Funbrain offers users the following categories: "Math Arcade," "Reading," "Arcade," "Playground," and "All Games." Each of these sections offer unique games and activities that will help 'tweens, especially tweens struggling with reading. Moreover, if 'tweens are looking for a way to kill time, they can play all of the games that are offered on the site.

Another great feature of this website is the "Web Books + Comics." Fans of  "The Diary of a Wimpy Kid," can actually read the book online, which is pretty awesome since the books are always checked out. Moreover, this book will take readers straight to the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" website, which contains much more stuff and information about the book. Along with this series, FunBrain offers other web comics and e-books that will appeal to 'tweens such as the "Amelia Writes Again," by Marissa Moss, and comic strips. Furthermore, there is an "Entertainment" section that redirects users to the Family Education site, which lists movie reviews and a list of television shows. Not only is Funbrain a site for 'tweens, but for parents and educators as well. As an alternative to popular media, this site will be a nice change of peace for the wired 'tween.

Cartoon Network | Free Games and Online Video from Ben 10, Star Wars and Total Drama Action! (n.d.). Retrieved November 23, 2010, from http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/index.html

Honestly, what 'tween wouldn't love a site that offers free video games, applications, and games online? Cartoon Network (CN) is one of the more popular television stations where 'tweens can not only access goofy cartoons, but the Star Wars Clone Wars episodes and games. The website, providing the internet connection, may take a few seconds to load since it is incredibly Flash heavy. Otherwise, it is very easy to navigate. Users have a variety of options to search such as: television show line-up's, discussion boards, games, videos, and shop the online store. Users are allowed to register for accounts (there is no age limit) to access special features. Users, before they sign-up need to read the rules and regulations because CN clearly states that any violation of the user agreement will end in account termination; kids are asked to have their parents read the rules.

CN offers 'tweens over 230 online games AND they can watch full episodes, and clips, of their favorite cartoons such as: Ben Ten Ultimate, Bakugan, Pokemon, Beyblade, Mad, Batman, and Robotomy. CN updates their site, regularly, to provide their viewers with new episodes and previews. Another great feature is the forum section, "Fan Talk", where users can discuss a variety of topics about game creators, episode commentary, and random stuff in general. 'Tweens will definitely enjoy this site since they can access it from any computer with internet access, especially library computers. Although CN is not based on educational value, it is a great tool to help 'tweens unwind from their hectic day.