The Bottom Line
For girls, internet safety issues aren't necessarily what they're thinking about when the log-on. A Smart Girl's Guide to the Internet is a resource worth considering for any girl who spends time on-line.
Pros
- Specifically targets the tween age group.
- Beautiful design offers a modern, hip look.
- Quizzes make learning internet safety fun and interactive.
- Fun, positive, helpful.
Cons
- Wish the book had been available years ago.
Description
- Chapter One - You and the Internet
- Chapter Two - Express Yourself
- Chapter Three - Cyberbullying
- Chapter Four - Photos, Videos & Music
- Chapter Five - Making a Difference
Guide Review - Girls, Internet Safety & More - A Review of a Smart Girl's Guide to the Internet
The American Girl company is probably best known for its dolls, and the movies and books that help tell the story of American girls of decades past. But the company also publishes wonderful resources for girls that target modern day issues and helps girls troubleshoot the challenges they're likely to face at home, in middle school and elsewhere. One of their best books focuses on girls, internet safety and online smarts.
Girls, Internet Safety and Online Know-How
A Smart Girl's Guide to the Internet is a spot-on resource for girls who have entered, or are about to enter, the online world. The author, Sharon Cindrich, can't be accused of failing to do her research as every chapter of the book details smart strategies for enjoying the internet and online life, without risking one's safety or reputation.
All of the books in the Smart Girl's line-up are beautifully designed with a modern look that's appropriate for its target audience. In addition to pull-out boxes offering tidbits of advice, the book is filled with quizzes and "what would you do" scenarios that get girls thinking about internet issues and possible snags they'll encounter on-line. For girls, internet safety isn't always what's most on their minds when they log on, but Cindrich gently reminds them that ultimately, their safety is dependent on the decisions they make.
For tween girls, internet safety resources must include advice on the avoidance and handling of online bullies. The subject of cyberbullying gets a chapter of its own, and arms girls with the ammunition they'll need to avoid on-line bullies, or deal with them appropriately if avoidance doesn't work.
Cindrich is a tech expert and an online safety expert who knows her stuff. The tone of the book is positive throughout, and helpful every step of the way.
It's worth noting that the book isn't all about avoiding online traps. Separate sections give girls advice on how to have a blast on the Internet, uploading photos, downloading music, and creating websites of their own.
Other guides in the American Girl line-up of helpful resources include A Smart Girl's Guide to Starting Middle School, A Smart Girl's Guide to Friendship Troubles, A Smart Girl's Guide to Money, and A Smart Girl's Guide to Staying Home Alone.
