Website: Shaun the Sheep

URL: http://www.shaunthesheep.com/

Other Choices: Harry Potter Scholastic, Hero Up, Kung Fu Panda World

Synopsis: Fun fan site skews older than Shaun's TV series.

Common Sense Rates It:

Parents need to know
Parents need to know that this SHAUN THE SHEEP fan site targets viewers of all ages. There are social features like profiles, messaging, and forums, although profiles have privacy options and forums seem to be heavily moderated. There are some activities geared to little kids, but most of the games are designed for older ones.

• Families can talk about protecting privacy online. What information is safe to share, and what's off limits?
• Who do you think the intended audience for this site is?

What's the story?
The creators of Wallace and Gromit present a new cast of creatures: Shaun the Sheep and his barnyard friends. Shaun's fan site has some content for little kids and some for older kids and adults. It includes short video clips, games, downloads, activities, contests, and forums. Users who register can create profiles, add online buddies, and send messages; they also can save their progress in games and earn badges for achievements.

Is it any good?
Games are a definite highlight of Shaun's site, and they're often rather challenging; fortunately, many provide "hint" options, and registered users can save their progress as they make their way through levels. The forums are moderated, keeping discussions friendly and clean. Although the site has more content for older fans than little kids, parents looking for fun activities for preschoolers will find a few in the "Goodies" section, like printable mazes and craft guides.