Many companies and organization have created websites just for kids. Some feature favorite characters such as Barney or Mickey Mouse while others are maintained by companies that have products to sell to children and their parents.

While many sites are free, some require a membership fee. Others contain advertising, so you need to be aware of what is involved before pointing your children to any site.

Here are a few examples to get you started.

• MaMa Media — Here you can create digital pictures and play online games.

• Kid's Channel — At this site kids can read, create and submit their own stories, as well as print coloring pages.

• Crayola Creativity Central — Click here and you can send cool online cards or print pictures to color.

• National Geographic Kids — This site has everything: games, challenging quizzes and more!

• A Virtual Detective Agency — Here you need to register to become a part of an exciting detective agency.

• Meet Curious George — Are you curious? This site features everything you want to know about Curious George, with lots of fun activities.

• Discovery Kids — With puzzles and challenging adventures, this site is sure to be a hit.

• Online Games and Activities from Fisher Price — This site has great developmental games for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

• Whit’s End — Home of Adventures in Odyssey from Focus on the Family

• Clubhouse Magazine — Puzzles, stories, crafts and more

• Christian Kid's Links — This site will link you to many great Christian kids’ websites, including devotional material and games.

• Kid Explorers — Learn about the Creator by exploring his marvelous creation

• A Kid's Heart — Play interactive Bible puzzles, crossword, word searches or hangman games

• Game Zone — Games and activities; some Christian