Tween Social Networking and Message Boards

Fun Places for Tweens to Meet and Chat With Each Other

Aug 12, 2008

Message boards have stormed the Internet, and tweens have a few of their own places to hang out and chat. The first question is - are they safe?

Internet safety is the first thing on a parent's mind when it comes to letting a tween wander around to different websites. That's with good reason. There are many places where a tween could accidentally be talking with the wrong person, and it is a scary reality. But, there are some message board and social networking sites that are strictly for tweens, and provide a safe environment for them to meet with people their own age, and talk about the issues that mean most to them.

BeTween Talk Message Board

This is a fun place for tweens to meet each other. The site is hosted by Chaotic Communications, Ltd., which also owns a homeschool message board site, kids crafts site, and a spina bifida support group site. The site is easy to navigate, which is a plus for tweens.

The main features of BeTween Talk are the ability for tweens to post messages in different categories and the ability to play fun games on the site as well. The "Frequently Asked Questions" page explains the rules of the site and provides parents with much information on how the site works and about the safety of the site in terms of content and what can be posted. Unacceptable posts are deleted and not tolerated here.

Imbee Social Network for Kids

This site boasts that it is the first social network for kids. It actually includes much more than a message board, but also a place for tweens to start a blog. The site is easy to navigate. Tweens can join a group, talk with friends, and post a limited personal profile for other tweens to view. Other cool features of this website are:

Parents can rest assured that this is a safe place for tweens to interact with each other because it is teacher-endorsed and has the Kid's Privacy Safe Harbor seal. In fact, teachers can join the network and have Imbee loaded on school computers. The site is free to join, which is also a big plus.

As with any interaction your tween has on the Internet, parents are encouraged to monitor activity and set limits on computer time. Parents are also encouraged to check out potential sites before allowing tweens to use them. Together these two tips can make your tween's Internet usage fun and safe, and give you peace of mind.

The copyright of the article Tween Social Networking and Message Boards in Tween Trends is owned by Denise Oliveri. Permission to republish Tween Social Networking and Message Boards in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.