When I was in 5th grade, kids were just learning to type in extra curricular classes at school….on black screens and green text. In fact, computers were still pretty rare in homes, but my family was lucky to have one. And don’t hate, but we totally had AOL and Prodigy.
Oregon Trail and Where in the World is Carmen San Diego were about the only games out. And darn it all if influenza didn’t kill you 2 miles from your destination, am I right?
Things sure have come a long way since then.
Kids now have iPods and iPads and iPhones and Facebook and email and an unlimited supply of apps to dig themselves into. In my home alone, we have an HP, iMac, iPad1, iPad2, iPod, and 2 iPhones. I wont even get into the Xbox, blu-ray, etc. etc.
It can be seriously overwhelming when you think about it. I don’t want to limit my daughter from the technology of her time, but I still need to monitor her for age appropriate intake and find positive ways to be a part of what she is doing while she is exploring all the online options. Lucky for our family, Charlotte is one of those kids that prefers to play with you instead of without you. We are a total family of co-play.
Especially with a baby at home that takes up so much of our time, we have to make sure that Charlotte is getting one on one time with each parent in a capacity that she feels taken care of and has fun as well. Today, for example, we went off to the water park and took turns taking her on slides. Although during the week I often teach her to cook and we work on crafts and her daddy spends an hour outside every evening running the dog or playing soccer, there is also a lot of indoor time as well. We live in the south and aside from the hot and humid weather, we are also dealing with summer storms. We have to find things to do and do together.
So back to technology. Our family craves safe and fun ways for Charlotte to explore online when there are so many options to get into trouble elsewhere. Recently she has been enjoying Webkinz. Chances are you already know what they are, but if not, here is a little help:
What is Webkinz World?
- The original kids’ online world, Webkinz World introduced the concept of web-enabled toys. Webkinz pets are stuffed animals that combine the timeless fun of plush with the interactivity of the Internet. Members adopt pets, go on quests, decorate rooms, play games & quizzes and create rooms and ‘chat’ within a controlled environment.
- Webkinz is FREE to play
What is a Webkinz Pet?
- Webkinz pets are lovable plush pets that each come with a unique Secret Code that lets you enter Webkinz World and play with a virtual version of your pet.
- (editors note:) Webkinz Pets do not require you to actually clean out a littler box or use a pooper scooper in the back yard…this is why this mom enjoys this version better
- Webkinz World is NOW totally free to play! Your purchase of the animal only allows a different avatar.
How to get Started with Webkinz
- You can play on Facebook (intended for adults/teens)
- You can play on the website (more for kids)
- If you get a free-to-play account, you can send adopt a kitty or puppy.
But I don’t have a Webkinz Pet and I really want my child to play!
- You are in luck. I have a great giveaway for you to be the coolest parent on the planet and WIN one right here on MomDot!!
(wait for rafflecopter to load!)
