Do you want to watch some of the best young minds of today face courage under enormous pressure? Then forget Dancing with the Stars or American Idol. The Scripps National Spelling Bee is happening right now in Washington DC and-at least in my book-it's one of the world's greatest kid competition. (I admit the bias, but then I'm a former teacher). Best yet, the finals will be televised!

The first National Spelling Bee was in 1925 with only nine contestants. This year there is a record high of 293 spelling contestants who range in age from 9 to 15. The contestants were among 11 million third-through-eighth grade students who competed in local bees in all 50 states as well as U.S. territories, Canada, Chile and New Zealand. Over the next two days these kids will display their amazing spelling talents and that makes for fabulous family entertainment.

Scripps National Spelling Bee Schedule Today and Tomorrow

Wednesday 5/27 from 8 am to 4:15 pm EST all contestants participate in Rounds Two and Three. Catch that broadcast on the Web at ESPN360.com.

Thursday 5/28 between 8 am and 11 am EST is the semifinalist competition, which airs on ESPN.

Thursday 5/28 at 6 pm EST the finals will be broadcast on ABC. Only a dozen or so finalists will remain and the winner is crowned.

Click here to see 6 Ways to Get Kids Into the Spelling Bee Spirit


Dr. Michele Borba is the author of over 22 books including the upcoming Big Book of Parenting Solutions.