Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this site is for elementary kids (whereas PBSKids.org targets the preschool to early elementary crowd). Many of the activities require reading skills, so early readers might need an adult to help them. Much like its younger predecessor, this site is an easy-to-navigate, extremely-well designed place full of activities and games. There are no outside links and other than TV schedules, no advertising was found.
Families can talk about their favorite PBS TV show characters. What are the qualities that make them admirable? Are there challenges they face that relate to things you deal with in the real world? Also, do you think you would like playing the games as much if your favorite characters weren't featured? What if the star was someone you didn't recognize?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Dana Cotter
PBS continues its delivery of quality Web sites with this gem: PBS.ORG/GO, a hub full of TV show characters that appeal to elementary age kids (think Cyberchase, Zoom, It's My Life). Each show has its own set of character-related games and activities. (Parents and teachers even have a section on each of the TV show's pages, too.) Some have special logins -- which require only a username and password -- for voting, newsletter, and sharing privileges. Kids can contribute to the site by posting photos, drawings, stories, or boasting about their special talents. Kids can also get a personalized, printable "web license" for kids who pass an Internet safety quiz. History and facts are offered in a truly fun way; at the time of this review, kids can learn about Jazz music and New York City. With over 100 educational games to choose from and kids' favorite characters starring in scores of fun activities, PBSKids.org/go is a site not to miss.
To find out more about the TV shows on PBS Kids, check out our reviews.
Reviewed: 10/15/2007
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Violence |
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Language |
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Message |
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Social BehaviorPBS characters tend to be good role models, lend a helping hand, and/or communicate positive messages. |
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CommercialismThe "Don't Buy It" section imparts ad smarts (how photos of models are altered, music in commercials). |
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Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco |
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Educational ValueMost games and activities are educational. Kids can earn a PBS "web license" when they pass a quiz on Internet safety. |
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