anonymous

Parent of a Citizen

As a concerned parent of a child that frequents Whyville a great deal, I'm taking a chance to write an article for the Times in the hopes that it'll get published.

Two years ago I was made aware of Whyville, and before allowing my children to get online, I made an account up just so I could go on and check it out before permitting my children to get on themselves. And was I impressed! I never thought I'd ever see some thing online that I would permit children to frequent and feel safe in doing so. It not only gave them the opportunity to interact with kids their age but kids from different cultures and countries worldwide, while at the same time they learned while they played.

My kids really enjoyed it immensely, 'til recently. I've noticed they haven't been going on as much anymore and since my daughter seemed to be one of the so-called "popular" kids, I decided to get on and see what was happening... and what a surprise! It was no longer a fun time on here -- there was nothing but fighting and name calling, kids being mean to each other, adults being mean to kids. YES, ADULTS!! I think it's great when an adult gets on here and talks to the kids in a helpful, honest fashion, but to fight and call them names and turn others against another child?? Come on, now, that's not something adults do. What kind of role model are you being for our kids?

So come on, kids! Get along! Adults, grow up!! Stop the fighting and make Whyville a fun place once again!

A Concerned Parent