Fanlala (http://www.fanlala.com/)

common sense media says

Cyber news source for teen celeb fanatics.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that -- although according to the site, administrators review every video, photo, and story posted -- comments, user-created quizzes, and profile pics go live immediately, so inappropriate content could easily get onto the site. If you’re 13 or under, a parent or guardian is required to provide a name and email address during registration and must confirm your membership before you first log in. However, kids can easily register using a friend’s email or other account.

Educational value: Aside from brushing up on your reading skills when checking out the news, not much.
Positive messages: The site is upbeat and generally encourages innocent adoration. However, its frenzied focus on celeb gossip could potentially convince users that other kinds of gossip about classmates and friends is OK, too.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Although a message says that comments must be approved before a site administrator before going live, they seem to appear instantly -- and it's possible to post words like "s--t" on your profile and other areas of the site.
Consumerism: The site features ads for things like movies, and plugs to watch various TV shows are in some of the news items.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Privacy & safety: Users need to friend each other to see each other's full profile; friending just requires one user to send a request to another user.

More on Fanlala

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about what the difference is between celebrity gossip -- such as reading about who your favorite actress is dating -- and gossip you might hear at school. Could either type be hurtful?

  • What kinds of things are OK to post online when you're commenting on a photo or something someone has said? What things aren't? Could you hurt someone's feelings by writing something, even if you've never met that person?

  • Why should you be cautious about accepting a friend request from someone you don't know in real life?

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Teen celebs are the focus on FANLALA.COM, a virtual community that offers teen and tween girls one-stop shopping to find out about their latest celeb crush or favorite star. The site has a decent amount of information to keep users occupied -- it features dozens of videos, including celeb interviews and music videos, and the news section is frequently updated.

Teen girls are likely to enjoy the star-centric quizzes, which appear to be one of the site’s most popular sections. They can also create and post their own quiz on a celebrity for other users to take. The site has the potential to become a thriving celeb community, and most comments are pretty tame. However, the conversation only seems to really get going on a few of the celebrity-based posts. In general, Fanlala could benefit from a few more star-struck fans.


This review was written by Erin Brereton
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

SunshineDoll
teen, 15 years old
 
I visited this website, and I thought it was OK. They give news about what's happening in Hollywood and with celebrities. There is nothing inappropriate altough the vocabulary can be offensive from time to time, but rarely.

yeahbuddy
teen, 16 years old
 
lovveee it

lyricgirl
kid, 11 years old
 
Great!
I don't know why CSM does this. This is NOT off for 8 and under or iffy for 9-12. I am 11 and I love this site! My little 8-year old sister also loves it! Great for anyone who loves celeb gossip!

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age