 | 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. |
ShiningStars
Common Sense Media says
Log in with plush toy ID; safely chat, play games.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that kids must buy a plush toy to access the features on this site. Kids earn points to access different areas of the site.
What's it about?
Kids use a secret code that comes on the Shining Star stuffed animal's tag to register on WWW.SHININGSTARS.COM, choose the name and location of a star to "adopt," name the virtual version of their plush toy, and select positive terms to describe their new friend, such as "friendly" or "musical." The site has games for kids -- including memory games -- as well as an incentive to play often by awarding "glow points," which are used to buy music downloads (original tunes) and short Shining Stars-themed films. (They can also be donated to a children's charity featured on the site.) You're awarded several thousand points upon registering, but it's not hard to burn through those with a few clicks buying trees, buildings, and vehicles to design a scene for your Shining Star to play in. Users also can submit wishes online or send inspirational e-cards.
Is it any good?
Shining Stars is upbeat and interactive enough to hold kids' interest for some time -- items in most sections giggle and go boing, and activities require clicking and moving icons. The site's only real detriment is that bouncing back and forth between sections can prompt the site to request you to log in again -- which slows down the fun.
Online interaction: The chat only allows users to choose from canned sayings like "Hey There" and "What's Up?"
What families can talk about
Families can talk about how to behave safely in a virtual world.
Parents can also talk about setting computer time limits so kids don't get too carried away.
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- Teens & kids
Kid, 12 years old
April 9, 2008
AGE
i like it
well i love this web site even thoe i havet plated yet
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AGE
Do not buy!
The website does not work! While the plush is cute, so are many others, this was bought so my children could name a star. Very disappointing.
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AGE
A complete and total rip off
The plush had a code that didn't work. We emailed the company and they never responded. My advice is don't buy these plush animals as my daughter was very disappointed that I spent $10 and she never got to use the web site.
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AGE
sick.
This is bad. My little sister was playin on website, and all of a sudden a monkey on a star stole all her coins by hacking it. TISK TISK
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| Genre: | Gaming |
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