If you are a parent, caregiver, or educator, you have probably searched online for learning activities, research-backed advice, or child development information and wondered, Is this reliable? And do I have to pay for it?
Good news: there is a growing world of Open Educational Resources, often called OER, designed to make high-quality learning materials free, trustworthy, and accessible to everyone, including families.
So, What Are Open Educational Resources?
Open Educational Resources (OER) are free, openly licensed materials created for teaching, learning, and research. That means families can use them at no cost, and educators can often adapt them to meet children’s specific needs.
For families raising young children, OER can include:
- Child development textbooks written in plain language
- Research-based articles on learning and behavior
- Lesson plans and play-based activities
- Videos, games, and interactive tools
- Public datasets that inform how children learn and grow
These resources are used by teachers, researchers, and child development professionals—but they are also incredibly valuable for parents who want reliable information without a paywall.
Trusted OER Sources Families Can Explore
Here are some family-friendly, reputable OER sources that support early learning and child development.
📚 Research and Learning Libraries
- ERIC (Education Resources Information Center)
A digital library of education research, helpful for understanding early childhood learning and development. - Google Scholar
A free search engine for academic research across disciplines, including child development and education. - JSTOR Open Content
Offers free access to selected journals and books, including education and social sciences.
🎓 Early Childhood–Focused Learning Tools
- PBS LearningMedia – Early Childhood
Videos, lesson ideas, and interactive resources families can use at home. - Khan Academy Kids
Free app for learning activities, books, and videos for young children focusing on literacy, math, and social-emotional skills. - OER Commons – Early Childhood Education
Lesson plans, activities, and teaching strategies that parents and caregivers can adapt. - Open Textbook Library – Early Childhood Education
Free textbooks that explain child development concepts in an accessible way.
👶 Child Development & Parenting Expertise
- ZERO TO THREE
Research-based resources focused on children from birth to age three. - National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Offers guidance on developmentally appropriate practices and early learning. - Harvard Graduate School of Education – Usable Knowledge
Breaks down education research into practical advice families can use.
What Kinds of OER Can Families Use at Home?
OER are not just academic papers. Families can find:
- Research Articles
Evidence-based information on learning, behavior, and development. - Lesson Plans & Activities
Printable and adaptable ideas for play-based learning at home. - Multimedia Materials
Videos, podcasts, and interactive games that make learning engaging. - Educational Texts
Easy-to-understand explanations of child development stages and strategies.
Why OER Are a Win for Families
Using Open Educational Resources offers several big benefits:
💰 Cost-Effective
High-quality learning materials without expensive subscriptions or textbooks.
🧠Research-Based
Many OER are created or reviewed by educators and researchers, giving families confidence in the information.
📚 Supports Lifelong Learning
Parents can continue learning alongside their children, from toddlerhood through the school years.
🎨 Encourages Creativity and Flexibility
Many OER can be adapted to fit your child’s interests, learning style, and pace.
How Families Can Get Started
- Start with one or two trusted sites that offer preschool-friendly videos, stories, songs, and hands-on activities. You do not need a long list—just a few go-to favorites.
- Use open learning resources for playtime and exploration, not just “schoolwork.” Think story videos, counting games, music and movement, and simple science activities that spark curiosity.
- Explore together and follow your preschooler’s lead. If they are excited about animals, letters, or building things, choose resources that build on those interests.
- Ask your local library about free early learning resources. Many libraries offer open digital tools, storytimes, and learning guides designed especially for preschoolers and their families.
Libraries, educators, and families all play a role in making learning accessible—and OER help level the playing field.
