Avatar Games That Are for Children and Not for Teens
Among the many games available to play on the Internet, virtual world games, or avatar games, can be great fun for children. Some avatar games are even educational, teaching young players things such as communication skills, responsibility and how to manage money. Registering a parent's email address at these sites allows the parent to set up security controls in their child's game. Many games also allow chat, for which the parents also can set up security features. Most sites have a tour visitors can take to acquaint themselves with how to play or an "About" or "FAQ" link to learn more about the game. The games included here are targeted for children ages 6 to 14.
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Build-A-Bearville
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At Build-A-Bearville, a player chooses between a male or female avatar, then chooses their avatar's hairstyle, eye color and type of clothing. Players also have the option of "bringing a furry friend to life" by registering the code of the bear they bought at a Build-A-Bear Workshop. Players can go on adventures and play games with their furry friends. This game is free and requires no special computer skills.
Club Penguin
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At Club Penguin, the player's avatar is a penguin. The player can choose the penguin's color and name. Players take the penguin across a snow-covered island while playing games and earning coins. Players also can purchase a paid membership, ranging from $5.95 for one month to $57.95 for a year. Paid membership provides exclusive games, party badges, access to special events related to this game, adoption of a puffle (a small, furry creature in the game) and puffle-themed clothing.
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Webkinz World
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Like Build-A-Bearville, Webkinz World allows users to play by entering a code from a Webkinz plush toy. You can buy a Webkinz from the Webkinz online store or by visiting a participating store, which can be found through the Webkinz Store Locator. In Webkinz World, you get KinzCash, which you can use to decorate your room and buy things. Players can participate in games and contests by themselves, or they can invite friends to play with them.
Garden Party World
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Each character in Garden Party World has a garden to care for. Players are rewarded with orbs (the game's currency), which they can use to buy clothes and furniture for their tree houses, as well as accessories and costumes. You can play for free or get a paid membership for extra features. The game teaches players about the responsibility of caring for a garden, as well as teamwork in multiplayer games. Parents signing their children up for this game can choose "chat" or "no chat."
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