Kerpoof.com

Where kids can safely dabble in techno-creativity.

Entertainment Value: Medium Graphics: Art, movie design tools for kids Playability: Easy to hard Reading Level: Medium Website: http://www.kerpoof.com

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this is a free educational site created to help teachers integrate technology into the classroom. But with a little trial and error tweens at home can figure out and use the site's creative art, publishing, and animation tools on their own. There are some social networking and "send to a friend" features, but safety features require kids to have their friends' email addresses to be able to send messages or create a group.

Families can talk about how computers can be used to enhance -- or dampen -- creativity. Sometimes backgrounds or even extensive character options can limit kids' creativity. What are some differences between how you can be creative while using the Kerpoof.com art studio versus starting with a blank sheet of paper? Also, discuss why this kind of "social networking" is safer than other sites, like MySpace or Second Life.

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Dana Villamagna

KERPOOF.COM is designed to bring out the inner artist in computer-using kids. This site has many creative options for kids to explore, from quick hits like designing a greeting card to send to grandma via email to the much more challenging project of creating a short animated movie. The social networking aspects of the site -- sharing creations, voting on others' work, email, chat, groups -- are all formulated in very safe, controlled ways.

The nifty animation tools and some famous artist-inspired backgrounds that go with the art studio will inspire many kids to create their own works of art. And, while many kids will enjoy and learn a lot from using this site on their own, the maximum benefit will most likely be achieved in a classroom setting. Otherwise, kids will have to poke around a lot and use trial and error, as some directions can be rather vague. Teachers can use the site's lesson plans to integrate other subjects into computer lessons and guide students to full use of all of Kerpoof.com's many techno-savvy experiences.

For other creative and educational tween sites try WebbliWorld.com, Kidvideos.com, and MyPopStudio.com.

Reviewed: 02/20/2008

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Content		CS	adults	kids
Content
Sexual Content
Violence
Language
Message
	Social Behavior This site helps teachers safely integrate technology into their classrooms without sending young students into the wide-open world of the Internet at-large.
	Commercialism Some of the background scenes are sponsored by educational organizations and businesses, but the sponsorship "ads" do not detract from the main focus.
	Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco
	Educational Value The art, publishing, and animation studios teach students how computers can help express creativity in new and different ways. The teacher lesson plans (with more added all the time) integrate other subjects into computer instruction.