Laboring over math homework? Get some help with Khan Academy

The long lazy days spent grilling in the backyard and jumping in the pool are numbered now that our kids are getting back to the grind of school, and its pesky little sidekick, homework. And while I'd like to think that I am definitely smarter than a fifth grader, there are times when my kids' math assignments really throw me for a loop.

But, I think I'll be okay this year because I've found a little help for everything from basic addition to much, much higher level math.

 

If you're a mama of a teen, definitely consider Khan Academy before you start thinking about paying for tutoring for those higher-level classes. This amazing find is absolutely, totally free, and may be just what your child needs. It's also the kind of site that makes me happy there is an internet.

Created by former hedge fund manager and super-smart guy Salman Khan, it began humbly as just a few videos made to help his younger cousin understand some tough math concepts. Now, just seven years later, there are now over 2,400 videos in this library with many more viewers--including some school districts, and people like Bill Gates, who ended up investing a ton of money in the site through his foundation.

These are not super fancy, highly animated videos that require kids to play games for "points" or entice them to dress an avatar: These are simple, 10-20 minute "white-board" videos with Salman Khan explaining a math or science or economics concept in his friendly, informal manner. But, he's not goofing around: Just spend a few minutes watching an Organic Chemistry video and you'll know this is the real deal.

Oh, and did I mention it's all free?

For my younger kids, I am happy to see that he's covered pretty much all of K-12 math in the video library. And while his science and history lessons are geared more toward high-school or college level, I can only hope that he'll keep making these videos. We've got a lot of years of schooling ahead. -Christina

You'll find everything from basic addition to high-school-level math, history and science classes at Khan Academy.

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