Panwapa (http://www.panwapa.com)
common sense media says
Safe, fun global village to explore from Sesame.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this highly interactive Sesame Workshop site is a safe and fun introduction to simple social networking -- and a part of a global initiative to teach kids how to be good world citizens. Kids create an avatar that can visit other kids' avatars around the world, leaving friendly, prescripted messages and learning about other cultures and languages. No personal information is collected, and there's no inappropriate content. Six characters provide voice-over instructions for kids, but it's best to have parents guide them through the site using the "For Caregivers" materials.
Educational value:
Through exploration and age-appropriate, simple games, kids learn about language, culture, and geography.
Violence:
Not applicable.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
The site is available in several languages.
Consumerism:
No ads, just logos of organizations that fund the Panwapa project.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
More on Panwapa
Review It
Most useful reviews by all members
genie623
parent of 5 year old
parent of 5 year old
After the initial fun of creating an avatar--and you have to help children with this part--it's not exactly self evident that there are many choices to explore (initially, many kids didn't know they could dress thier avatar), the action dies down a bit. There isn't really any "play" going on. It's more a site for exploring and children really need an adult to sit with them and encourage their explorations. Otherwise, many children become bored or don't know what to do next. The short video clips help to keep them engaged and excited about exploring. But the POINT of the whole site (exploring and finding other panwapa kids with similar interests) is a bit lost on children. Also, it's a little contradictory that IDENTITY is completely protected while the site trys to promote acceptance of individuality, diverse cultures, etc. It's hard to get the panwapa avatars to actually make connections to each other as everything (including chat messages and postcards) are prescribed. There is really no individuality.
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plum_pie
kid, 12 years old
kid, 12 years old
It's OKAY
Panwapa is quite fun although there isnt alot to do but it is fun.
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