URL: http://www.iemily.com
Other Choices: Center for Young Women's Health, Sex, Etc., BodiMojo
Education: Teens can learn a lot about staying healthy, both physically and emotionally. Articles are reviewed by medical professionals.
Synopsis: Girls who get over stale design will find smart health info.
Common Sense Rates It:
Parents need to know
Parents need to know that iEmily is a site for teen and preteen girls offering information and resources on many different health topics. There's a section on sexual health, and the site touches on heavier issues like abuse, rape, and self-injury. There's also content on nutrition, fitness, skin care, and other topics of interest to a younger audience.
- Every family has different opinions on the best approach to discussing sex and sexual health. Talk about your values and expectations when it comes to sex. Some teens are afraid to talk to their parents about sex. Would your teens feel comfortable approaching you if they had a question or concern? Why or why not?
- Discuss how the media may impact your teen's health, especially relating to body image and sex. Read Common Sense Media's Sex and Media Tips and Diet Messages and Unhealthy Bodies.
Is it any good?
Teens and preteens who are used to sophisticated sites with sleek design and lots of interactive features might find IEMILY a bit basic. The site was launched in 2000, and it still has the look and feel of that era. On the plus side, iEmily has hundreds of articles on topics ranging from healthy recipes to feng shui to hiccups, so there's no shortage of reading material.
The Good Stuff
Messages: The site includes positive messages about staying healthy, resisting peer pressure, making smart choices, and other important issues.
Educational Value: Teens can learn a lot about staying healthy, both physically and emotionally. Articles are reviewed by medical professionals.
What to watch out for
Violence Some of the articles and first-person stories discuss abuse and sexual assault.
Sex: The site covers the basics of sexual health, including anatomy, pregnancy options, birth control, STDs, and sexual orientation.
Language: No profanity.
Consumerism: There's no advertising on the site.
Drinking, drugs & smoking: The site includes information on the dangers of drinking, drugs, and smoking.
