Safe Search Engines for Kids

A well-designed search engine for kids will have a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, appeals to children of all ages and most importantly provides an environment where they can safely surf the internet. Search engines for kids are specifically designed to restrict the results returned from a child’s query, filtering out inappropriate material such as explicit sexual content, violence, hate speech, gambling and drug sites.

If you’re concerned about what your child sees online, the following dedicated search engines will be of interest. They filter out inappropriate content that some parents and teachers find unacceptable for a minor to view.

Awesome Library – Containing a directory and index, Awesome Library organizes the web with 37,000 carefully reviewed resources including the top 5 percent in education.

KidsClick – Just like being at the library, this search engine (created by librarians) uses cataloged resources that provide objective, age appropriate information that makes it easy for kids to understand current event topics.

Quintura For Kids – This visual and intuitive search engine runs a search and then translates the results into a tag cloud (map) on the screen. The images help refine the search and make it fun.

KidRex – A search engine powered by Google Custom Search for kids. The interface has a colorful, hand-drawn crayon and colored marker design making it fun to use for kids in Kindergarten – 3rd grade. This search engine uses SafeSearch which filters objectionable content, keywords, phrases and websites to keep search results clean.

FactMonster – Operated by Yahoo, this website is more than a directory. Filled with games, movies, reference, parents and teachers’ Guides. Each site has been checked by experienced educators and the target audience is children between the ages of 7 – 12.

Google – If you have a Google account, you can create your own kid-safe search engine by using Google Custom Search Creator.

The internet is a fascinating place but it also can be dangerous for children if they’re not supervised. Parental discretion is advised and these sites can help you protect your child when they’re online.