Virtual Kids: The Best Websites for Kids on the Net

A Review of Four Popular Sites

Let's face it, kids love the Internet. Kids use the net to chat, share jokes and pictures, email, do homework, research, and play games. Keeping them safe while they are using the net is always an issue. Many websites have been created to allow a safe place for kids to play, learn, or connect. In recent years, sites like Webkinz and Club Penguin have developed a loyal following of pint-size visitors. Here is a guide to some of the most popular places for kids on the Internet.

General Internet Safety

In general, before you let your kids start surfing, there should be clear rules as to what is safe on line. Due to their trusting nature and developing reasoning skills, kids can be easy prey for Internet predators. Here are some general guidelines to protect kids when they surf the web:

-Make sure your kids know never to give out personal information in chat areas. That includes name, phone number, address, school or any other identifying nature. This is important to think about when choosing screen names or chat user names. Never include a first or last name in a child's email address!

-Be aware of what your kids are doing on-line. More and more, Internet service providers are offering monitoring tools to make sure your child is not visiting sites that are not appropriate for kids. Yahoo and AOL both offer effective tracking and protection for children's email, chat and surfing activity.

-Have the computer in an open area where adults can easily see what is on the monitor. The family room is a good choice.

Club Penguin www.clubpenguin.com

What it Offers: At Club Penguin, each child can have their own penguin that can travel through a virtual town and interact with other penguins. Kids can play games to earn coins to buy clothing or decorations for their penguins, or decorate their own igloo. Paid members can buy more elaborate decorations and clothing, and even adopt a pet puffle, a little fuzzy pet. Themes change regularly, and free clothing items are available as well.