Computer Networking for Kids

Many online networking sites are geared toward kids.

Online computer networking, or social networking, has become a part of life for almost everyone with a computer. Many of the social networking sites are not appropriate for children and can be harmful. This has led to the development of social networking sites specifically tailored for kids.

Togetherville

Togetherville is an online community for kids between the ages of 6 to 10 and their parents. Parents share the virtual space with their children, who only interact with people they already know in the real world. The aim is to give parents the comfort of knowing that their children are playing in a safe online environment where they are responsible for inviting other families to join their online community. The children can create art, watch videos and play games.

Neopets

Neopets.com is a site where children can adopt and own animated pets that they can then enter into contests, buy food and toys. The site is used by 54 million children who can interact with each other and play games.

Club Penguin

At ClubPenguin.com kids adopt animated penguins through which they talk to friends and play games. The 28 million users can also spend time decorating their penguins' igloos.

References

• CNN: Togetherville: A social network for kids
• The Times Online: The top seven social networking sites for kids