Searching For Child-Friendly Sites (NAPSA)—Chances are the first things your children think of when they hear the words “mouse” or “Web” are completely different than what you would have thought of at their age. But regardless of how Internet-savvy your children maybe, experts sayit’s still important to keep an eye on what sites kids visit and to find safe ways for them to have fun online. One way to do that is to find kid-friendly sites. Some are ad free and have parental controls built in—but at the same time, they’re fun destinations that kids actually wantto visit. For instance, Disney’s Blast site is an online world enjoyed by children of all ages. The subscription service is full of games, stories and activities designed to be fun and age appropriate. Parents can use the service’s Parents’ Guide to review the site’s different activities and decide what is best for their children. The site debuted in 1997 and since then has been considered one of the most successful online destinations for children. Disney recently updated the service to include new gamesandactivities, more-engaging graphics and animation. It even features an area where kids can purchase digital prizes with coins they havecollected while playing. Here’s a breakdown of what's offered: Fun And Games—Inthesite’s new Magic Mansionsection, chil- dren are challenged with strategy games such as Abu’s Tick-TockToe in the Princess Court or online games they can play with be sure children stay safe while online. Stitch in the Heroes Hall. In addition, kids can learn about animals with Flounder, Timon and Pumbaa in the Animal Arenaor visit the Enchanters Guild to download the Haunted Mansion game. The Value Of Fun—tTheservice also features a section called the Bizarre Bazaar. It lets children earn “coins” when they play some games. Those coins can then be traded in for virtual prizes. The Bazaar also features a virtual marketplace where members can buy andsell the items they’ve won to other members. The site provides voice-overs for every link and environment— meaning as children navigate through a room, a voice will announce each activity and title as the mouse passes over it, fun for all kids and critical for those too young to read. In addition, the site’s silly sound effects and musical introductions for games can make the whole experience more fun for children. For more information, visit www.disneyblast.com.
