that anyone can view
anything on this video-sharing site. Because the videos aren't rated for
age-appropriateness, you never know what you're going to get. That’s part of
the fun of the YouTube -- but it makes it hard to know what ... read more
that this 1937-set Zac Efron showbiz dramedy from Dazed and Confused director Richard Linklater is a world away from High School Musical (though Efron does sing). It tackles mature themes -- including infidelity and opportunism -- that ... read more
that the second installment in the hugely popular Twilight saga is darker and a bit more violent than the first movie, but not enough to make it inappropriate for teens, especially those who've read the books. That said, the relationship ... read more
that this formulaic but uplifting family sports drama -- which is based on the true story of football player Michael Oher -- centers on messages about inclusion, the benefits of hard work, and the importance of family. That said, it ... read more
that this video trivia game exists specifically for megafans of the movie Twilight and the books upon which the film was based. Film clips used in the game sometimes show violent or suggestive behavior, but if your child wants to play ... read more
that this is an expansion pack for The Sims 3, and players must already have a copy of The Sims 3 installed on their computer for the expansion pack to work. The expansion allows Sims to take vacations, and introduces new character ... read more
Naruto Shippuden: Clash of Ninja Revolution 3 (Nintendo Wii)
Parents Need to Know...
that Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution 3 is a fighting game in which characters use their fists, feet, and various bladed weapons to attack on another. A couple of characters are impaled in a cut-scene, but there is no blood. Since our ... read more
that this somewhat dated Web zine for girls offers articles on health, beauty, fitness, fashion, money, life, and more. There's a strong emphasis on developing a positive body image, and there's nothing on the site you wouldn't want your ... read more
that although the site's "rulz" insist that no swearing, bullying, or personal information is allowed, the site isn't monitored 24-7. But moderators check in from time to time, and violations can be reported to the site. Girls can also ... read more
that the biggest concerns in this reality competition series are an obsessive focus on fashionable brands and an overall message that says style trumps substance. Looks are essentially everything, and the show practically serves as a ... read more
that this '90s sitcom looks at life on earth from a unique point of view. There's a bit of racy content -- expect some sexual innuendo (most of which will go over the head of younger viewers), some hugging and kissing, and, in later ... read more
that this reality series follows Grammy-winning rapper Coolio as he attempts to build a family life with his nearly grown children. While his approach to parenting isn't always the best, he loves his kids and tries to instill some ... read more
that the scandal at the center of this book involves an alleged affair between a teen girl and her art teacher. There is some other heavy stuff: Her sister takes pills for depression and her grandfather nearly dies. Other than that, ... read more
that for a fast paced adventure story set during WWI there is surprisingly little violence. There are some battles that culminate in deaths and injuries, but there is very little blood and no gore. Genetically engineered fighting ... read more
The Amanda Project: invisible i by Melissa Kantor, Stella Lennon
Parents Need to Know...
that despite the apparent commercialism of a series of 10 books tied to a Web site that promotes their purchase, this is an excellent book by a talented writer. Each book in the series will have a different author, all writing under the ... read more
that overall this album is mostly OK for young teens, but parents should still be ready to talk about certain issues. A discussion about healthy relationships might be in order since this album presents some iffy role models for kids ... read more
that in both his lifestyle and music, John Mayer is just a little too mature for younger kids -- engaging in public relationships with various women and singing about adult topics like substance use and one-night stands. read more
that this combo rap-R&B song by Chris Brown offers lots of references to girls and material goods, but it doesn't incorporate profane language or graphic descriptions of sex, drinking/drugs, and violence. read more
