KidZui

__**KidZui**__

__Resources__:

KidZui home: http://www.kidzui.com/

KidZui is billed as a safe, free Web browser, search engine and online playground for kids 3-12 years in age. (From the KidZui home page)

Reviews:

http://www.commonsensemedia.org/website-reviews/KidZui.html

http://www.modernmom.com/pregnancy_parenting/article/2059

__Strengths__: Free Mozilla Firefox Add-on (Enhanced benefits for fee) Child’s use history reported to parent’s e-mail Search for kids has spelling suggestions Sites have been reviewed by parents and teachers before allowed to be shared Parents have control and are able to view child’s usage If downloaded with Firefox, can be used with Windows, Mac or Linux Parents may add individual websites

__Weaknesses:__ Too many games, some not what I would consider appropriate Many ads and commercial sites May be difficult to navigate due to so many links on main pages Ads asking to “join now” require payment and cause children to want to purchase

__Opportunities:__ Parents can monitor their child’s usage. Children can navigate the internet in a safe environment Helps children to learn key navigation skills Creates independence for children Allows children to learn about tagging favorite sites

__Threats:__ Although appeared safe, not sure if an inappropriate site could slip by Child may able to create an account using anyone’s e-mail and then login in as parent

Ideas for the Classroom: Use to help students learn searching on the web skills Share with parents for students doing research Allow students to use some of the more appropriate games Have students share updated news feeds, possibly during morning meeting. Students may have a “Question of the Day” and use this search engine.