I must be living in the dark ages. I have a 5 year old daughter and I still don't know the new and exciting things that the world has to offer for her.

Just before Christmas, I walked into my local dollar store to see what was available to purchase. WOW - I saw a great new shelf...loaded with doggies, kittens, bears, seals, frogs, cats, and more. They were called Webkinz.

Now, step too feet ot the left, and I see handbags (to carry the pet), bracelets, charms, and trading cards (which I don't know much about).

What has this world come to? My daughter is not yet 5 and she wants a "Webkinz" so that she can start taking care of them, and making friends on the computer.

I knew that whoever started Webkinz was making a lot of money.

Purchase a Webkinz pet, and it's yours to keep.  Your new pet, friend, and buddy.... You can bring him or her to life. You give it a name, and you activate it's life online.

Yes, activation is FREE. You need the special "code" that is attached to the Webkinz animal that you have purchased.

It is that simple. But, be prepared. A simple (retail) Webkinz pet purchase could cost you a hefty $10. to $50. bucks each.

Figure out if you are prepared to make this purchase, and teach your children to save "piggybank" money to help you do so.

Once you sign up, the Webkinz site can teach your child new things. I personally like it - counting, colors, math, spelling, and most of all, how to interact with other children (Webkinz).

There are games to play alone, and games to play with your online Webkinz friends.  They are all easy to access, and are geared towards learning and interacting.

It's a great site for children to spend some spare time and learn something from their adventure.