How do I Build a Kid or Teen Website?

Create a fun or educational website for kids and teens to use.

In the past, a great idea for a website for kids or teens wasn't enough to make it happen, unless you had in-depth knowledge of Web design or a large budget to hire a professional. Now, several websites make it easy for you to build your own website using free templates and with the ability to add pictures, video and other content that will help you tailor your website directly to kids and teens.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Decide on exactly what you want your website to offer kids or teens, and make a list. You may be envisioning an educational site kids can use to help with their English homework, or maybe a fun website filled with flash games for kids.

2. Research other websites that offer services similar to yours and take note of what you like about them and what you feel your website could do better. While you aren't necessarily in direct competition, it's good to know if there are already websites offering the kind of services you have in mind for kids and teens.

3. Find a website host that best fits your needs and register. Wordpress and Blogger both offer a lot of space for free, and are good for those who have a little experience with blogs or websites already. If you've never started a blog or website before, Web hosts like Weebly, Yola and Webstarts are all very user-friendly and also offer lots of space and room for creativity.

Build

1. Sign in to the dashboard of your website using the user name and password you created during registration. Browse through the templates your Web host offers (preview any of them full-screen by clicking on the thumbnail). Choose a template that fits the mood and theme of your website, like bright colors for a kids' game website, but also keep in mind how easy the website will be to navigate for children. Templates can have anywhere from one to four columns, and you don't want the website to be too difficult or overwhelming for kids when they visit.

2. Click "Page" or "Post" to begin adding content to your website. Enter text and information in the appropriate boxes, then click the image icons to upload pictures or graphics from your computer. Find videos online you want to include that are kid-appropriate, copy the embedded codes and paste them into the post. Organize your content by adding keywords in the "Tags" field and by choosing different categories for each post.

3. Click "Preview" to view your kids website full-screen. If possible, have a few kids or teens check out the preview first to help you figure out if there are any issues. Click "Publish" when you are finished with your website, and log in regularly to update and continue adding content.

References

• WordPress
• Blogger
• Weebly
• Yola
• WebStarts