Since we all learn something new all the time, whether we realize it or not, savvy parents can use Ebay to teach their children about so many things taht will be useful all their lives:
   What you'll find most useful depends on your goals and curriculum.
Some suggestions:
1.Start by going to Ebay's home page (simply click on the Ebay logo which is generally in the top left of your screen).

2. Check out the site map. You can find basic buyer and seller information here.  But first, write a list of basic seller and buyer questions. You can work backwards by starting with the info in the Buyer and Seller info sections of Ebay and then writing the questions. Show you children how to find this info. Ask them if they can think of any questions that aren't answered. If so, have them write Ebay. They can be amazingly responsive to suggestions. Goal: Learning to navigate a site map or online reference to a website

3. Have them write up a "listing"for one of their own items. Them compare that to listings for similar items on Ebay. How does their compare? What info did they forget to include, if any? Sometimes the kids can write better descriptions than those on auction! Goal: Learning effective sales writing, descriptions, vital details.

4. Have them compare costs and shipping prices. Goal: Financial education, consumer ed

5. Have them take a look at the Reviews and Guides section of Ebay ( a new section). Have them write a guide and/or review.
Goal - Learning to write clearly and specifically and to include vital info.

6. Let them try out some of the suggestions for craft and/or recipe projects in the Guides. THere is a wealth of FREE information here, everything from roasting pumpkin seeds to making handmade paper. All free! Goal: Learning to become more self-sufficient and knowledgable in a variety of areas.

7. Talk about how an online community works or should work. Discuss the pros and cons of Live Chat, Discussion and Chat rooms, etc. Let them see some sample questions and answers and discuss how people can work together to help each other gain information. In what areas of Ebay are they most likely to get helpful info? Goal: Learning how an online community works.

8. Discuss safety and security tips and how and why they are important: Goal: Becoming aware of basic online security information and safety.

As you can see there are a lot of various ways Ebay can supplement homeschooling or educational goals. It can be a way to enhance a child's understanding of how things work online.