Frequently Asked Questions
What is Directgov?
Directgov is a website run by the UK government. It brings together the widest range of public service information and services online. You can use the site to book a driving test, tax your car, renew your passport, find out about child safety and much more. There are distinct sections for a wide range of clearly identified customer groups such as Britons living abroad, parents, disabled people, the over 50s and young people.
What is DirectgovKids?
DirectgovKids is a website for children aged between 5 and 11. It aims to encourage children to think of themselves as young citizens with a range of rights and responsibilities. It invites children to explore a self-contained world, full of online games and activities. These games introduce important ideas such as citizenship, democracy and political participation.Why can the children only go into some of the buildings?
The site is growing all of the time. As more games and activities are added, more buildings will be accessible. We will also add entirely new buildings that currently do not feature in the DirectgovKids world. These areas currently contain cranes and building equipment!
How can I make best use of the site in the classroom?
Visit the teachers' area of the site. It contains lesson plans for each building in the DirectgovKids world. You can get to the teachers' area by clicking the link on the top left or by using the console.
What is the frame?
The frame sits around the DirectgovKids world. It contains a number of buttons that act as shortcuts. On the top right, you will find buttons linking to the teachers’ area, the parents’ area and accessibility area. On the bottom left, you will find buttons linking to the glossary (known as the Meaning Machine), the home page, shortcuts to all the buildings and games on the site, and forward and back buttons. Buster the dog is also available if you need help at any time.
I'm having problems seeing parts of the site.
It may be because the Flash player on your computer is too old. You can download the latest version by clicking here.
If you have any other questions, please e-mail us here.
www.direct.gov.uk/kids