The newness of summer may have worn off by now, and you might be looking for a way to beat the summertime blues. Online gaming has exploded in growth over the last decade. In the summer months, when it's too hot outside, and the kids are tired of the pool, an online game can be a great way to keep them occupied. There are so many great sites out there, and they include everything from basic educational games, to complex strategy games that pit multiple players against each other online. If you're looking for a time waster, or a brain teaser, or to play a version of one of your old favorites, you can find almost any type of game online.

I found five of the best online gaming sites out there. All of them allow you play for free, and you will not have enough time to play all that is offered on these sites. From the classic "Battleship" game, to NASCAR racing and Sword Fighting, the online gaming world will definitely keep your kids (and you) entertained. Have fun!

Many parents are looking for ways to help their kids stay engaged in learning over the summer months.  Sheppard Software is a great resource for parents who want to supplement their child's education.

If you're a parent whose child is starting Kindergarten or First Grade next fall, you may be looking for a way to help them prepare and gain the foundation they'll need to be successful. While the website appeals to lots of different age groups, there are some great specific features that will help your preschooler.

Some surveys have indicated that a startling number of people will accept friend requests on Facebook from people they don't know. As soon as they hit "accept," they allow that person into every photo, video, comment, post, and interaction that they've posted on Facebook. Just as you're concerned with where your kids hang out, and who they're with, you should also be concerned with their online connections.  Facebook is the world's most popular social network, and chances are either you have an account, or know lots of people that do. So as our children enter the online social networking world, how can we as parents engage in a healthy way, without getting the dreaded "helicopter parent" label?

I've compiled some great conversation starters to help you help your kids be smart and safe on Facebook. Use these as initiators to help, as you engage your child in ongoing conversations about their use of technology.

Summer is on its way, are you ready? None of us want our kids sitting in front of the TV all summer, absorbing the latest pop culture has to serve up. When the kids are not in summer camps, at the pool, on family vacations, or in summer school, technology can help to keep them entertained and engaged over the hot summer months.

Sheppard Software is one of my favorite "go-to" spots for helping my kids engage their brain and learn when they're not at school.  Fun for lots of different ages, they make education an interactive and fun online experience.

What are some other ways you use technology to engage your kids' brains? Feel free to discuss in the comments section here, or discuss in the family technology forum.