Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that kids must buy a plush toy to access the features on this site. The chat only allows users to choose from set responses like "Hey There" and "What's Up?" so there's no room for misuse. Even the usernames are carefully monitored to make sure none are inappropriate or offer any personal information. To obtain a username kids must have a request sent to their parent's email, which parents must approve. In fact, the only personal information the site ever requests is a parent's email and zip code for password or username retrieval. Kids do have to earn points to have access to some fun things on the site.
Families can talk about commercialism online. What is this site teaching our kids about money? Our article Kids' Social Sites and the Buying Bug should help get the conversation started. Also, families can talk about the Shining Stars TV ad (which is featured in several sections of the site) and the Star Watch promotional news blog -- and how they both emphasize buying more stuff. Does having fun have to cost money?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Erin Brereton
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, like friendly or musical. The site is upbeat and interactive enough to hold kids' interest for some time -- items in most sections giggle and boing, and activities require clicking and moving icons. Users also can submit wishes online or send inspirational e-cards. Shingstars.com also 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 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. 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.
For other safe sites that require a real toy, head on over to MyePets.com or Webkinz.com.
Reviewed: 10/20/2007
Rate It!
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Sexual Content |
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Violence |
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LanguageThe chat only allows users to choose from set responses so there's no room for misuse. |
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Message |
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Social BehaviorKids can select only positive terms to describe their new friend, like friendly or musical. |
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CommercialismYou have to buy a plush doll to play online; TV ad plays on many pages. |
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Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco |
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Educational ValueThere are educational games. Users can view their star's constellation. |
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