Has anyone used Shelfari with 3rd or 4th graders?

I haven't really explored Shelfari that well and I'd like to know if there are any disadvantages. Can outsiders find and contact the kids directly? What are everyone's experiences with Shelfari or other Web 2.0 tools and kids' privacy? So far I've been happy with Classblogmeister and Photopeach. I feel that they're very secure. I'm curious about other people's experiences.
Thanx!! By the way, I've learned so much from this forum. It's become my best friend. Thank you everyone for all of the valuable tips, websites, advice, and directions that you've posted!
Faith

0 members like this

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Renee MacDermid on November 27, 2009 at 10:27am

Take a look at
http://www.rafi.ki/site/safety.php
All the teachers are vetted to ensure they are in fact teachers and cannot actively participate until this process is completed. Communication between members is fully moderated as well.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Carol Olson on February 3, 2012 at 11:18am

I used Shelfari with 4th graders last year( I am at a different school this year) and it was fabulous. The students were so excited about reading, posting their books, reading what other kids had to say and joined and/or created book clubs online . I was wondering , too, about the safety aspect but it was fine and prompted conversations about staying safe on the internet. Hope you try it!