Disney's Club Penguin Launches New Interactive Guide to Help Parents Navigate the "Wonderful World of the Web" with Their Kids

LONDON, October 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

- New online research reveals more than 3 out of 5 parents surveyed [1] would welcome help on how to reap the benefits of the web
- From the global #1 virtual world for kids, the guide includes contributions from Gabby Logan, Neil Oliver, Zac Goldsmith and blogging star Martha Payne

New online research released today by Disney's Club Penguin reveals that over nine out of ten UK parents surveyed [2] believe the Internet creates incredible learning opportunities for kids however, more than three in five parents would welcome more guidance on how to help their children get the best out of the web. In response to this research, the global #1 virtual world for kids, has launched Club Penguin's Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web. Written by parents for parents, the guide aims to help them use the internet as a tool to foster their children's love of learning.

Bringing together contributors from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including BBC presenters Gabby Logan and Neil Oliver, MP Zac Goldsmith and child blogging star Martha Payne, author of NeverSeconds, Club Penguin's Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web could prove to be that invaluable resource that parents are seeking for online inspiration.

Dr Rachel O'Connell, internet safety expert and lead-author of the guide added:

"The pace of digital progress means that learning to use new technologies is increasingly an area in which kids are racing ahead of their parents.

"We know that parents trust and listen to advice from other mums and dads, with nearly a third saying that they have used the Internet to connect with other parents[3]. Club Penguin's Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web is set to be a valuable resource for parents, acting as a forum for parenting tips and advice. The aim is for it to provide a helping hand to mums, like myself, who are trying to keep up with the pace of digital change."

The eight chapters of Club Penguin's Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web will be released in stages over the coming months via http://www.disney.co.uk/clubpenguin. Parents will be able to comment, post and feedback on the report - creating a place where parents can hear from their peers best experiences and ideas. Additional contributors include child psychologist Laverne Antrobus and CEO of Childnet International, Will Gardner.

The online research, conducted by YouGov, with more than 2000 parents also revealed that 70% of parents surveyed wish the Internet had been invented when they were growing up.

Author of the 'Play' chapter, Gabby Logan said:

"The Internet and the way children learn about the world around them are changing at such a fast pace, they are transforming the way kids find new passions and develop life skills. The web has also revolutionized the way kids are able to play and take part in sports: allowing them to connect with coaches and athletes, view and learn routines and locate their local sports club.

"The amazing Games we had this summer meant that my kids were constantly online, checking out new sports they had seen on TV, and finding out quirky facts about all the different rules and athletes - it was a great learning experience!

"This new guide is a fantastic tool for parents, to help them find the best online child friendly content, and make sure their children are keeping safe at the same time."

Neil Oliver, historian and presenter of the recent BBC series 'The Vikings' and author of the 'Explore' chapter added:

"The Internet is the most powerful tool we have ever had to inspire children to learn in new ways, and broaden their horizons.

"Researching new subjects online leads kids in new directions and encourages them to find out about different topics. This is great - but it's our role as parents to guide their learning, ensuring they stay focused and gather reliable information. That's why guides such as this are invaluable for mums and dads."

Lucy Woodward, Director of Club Penguin UK, commented:

"Created by three dads, their vision for Club Penguin was to create a safe place online, where their kids could have loads of fun. True to this original vision, at Club Penguin we are passionate about ensuring kids have safe, fun online experiences and that the Internet becomes a tool to aid in their development and learning.

"The research reveals that parents would welcome more guidance in getting the best out of the web, which is why we've invited a diverse group of parents and experts to contribute to Club Penguin's Guide to the Wonderful World of the Web. From sports fans to teachers, TV presenters to entrepreneurs, they bring together insights from wide range of perspectives. We hope that mums and dads from across the country will share their own stories and advice on how to make the most of the internet with kids - from helping with homework to inspiring creativity and expanding horizons; the possibilities are endless."

Notes to editors
Disney's Club Penguin, is an award-winning virtual world for children with over 175 million members worldwide.

Created seven years ago by three dads looking for a safe place for their children to play, Club Penguin has built an unrivalled global reputation as a safe and secure online environment that provides fun for kids and peace of mind for parents, with its imaginative play environment, word filtering technology and live moderation. Today, Club Penguin is the largest virtual world for kids aged 6 to 12 in Europe and around the world.

Club Penguin works to maintain a fun and safe online entertainment experience by using sophisticated filtering technology and over 200 live moderators worldwide. It is free to use and enjoy; however a subscription membership provides access to additional features that enhance the play experience.


All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2012 parents with a child aged 6-14. Fieldwork was undertaken between 24^th and 28th September 2012. The survey was carried out online.

[1] 63% of UK parents of children aged 6-14
[2] 93% of UK parents surveyed
[3] 32% of all UK parents surveyed