| ON: Content is age-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. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that this game-making site contains clean content, with the occasional outside link featuring questionable content -- such as a game where naughty school kids are rewarded by a teacher removing her shirt. The site also opens the door to some large -- and potentially dangerous -- interactive possibilities: links to Yahoo Groups and encouragement to set up blogs on Blogger.com. On the upside, kids are also inspired to help their communities by inspiring social change. The site solicits donations for game design instructions, computer equipment and, oddly enough, money.
Part of the World Wide Workshop Foundation's Globaloria Program, MYGLIFE.ORG gives gaming fans a chance to learn about design and functionality -- and offers examples for all visitors to play. The site's home page says it "empowers and connects young aspiring Web developers worldwide." The 14 flags of different nations pictured imply it will soon, although currently only the U.S. and Israel sites are active. Users can play and study other user-designed games that challenge stereotypes and encourage healthy eating. Many feature the creator's notes; some have design tutorials. Kids can get Flash technology and HTML help, reading suggestions, links to a Wiki site about game designing experiences, and links to social change and educational games and articles on other sites. The site solicits donations for game design instructions, computer equipment and, oddly enough, money.
The site has room to grow -- some sections of the site don't feel chock-full of content -- but hardcore gaming fans will still enjoy MyGLife.org's mix of really informative game building tips, examples, and information.
Families can talk about the importance of positive games in which the goal is learning, not violence, and the dangers of revealing personal information in a blog. What information would be OK to share online with strangers and what is best kept private? Why don't you want strangers to have your full name or email address?
| Genre: | Creating |
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