Introduction to designing for children

1. Designing for Children
101
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009

2. What is effective design for kids?
• It enchants
• Stimulates their intellect
• Makes them interact with something outside
themselves
• It communicates and respects their intellect
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009

3. Misconceptions
• It doesn’t have to be kooky or colorful
• Kids of all ages want to be older than they are
• Don’t make assumptions based solely on own
experience with own children, nieces or
nephews, etc.
• Must have substance
• Not all about good will and fun. It’s hard work
designing for children
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009

4. Things to consider
• Motor and physical development
• Social skills
• Intellectual and Cognitive development
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009

5. “One of the key points is, children want to
see what they’re getting – being able to
click on something and getting an
immediate reaction.” – Susan Mernit,
editorial director of The Yuckiest Site
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009

6. Websites for Kids
• The Yuckiest Site on the Internet
• The Discovery Channel
• Sesame Street
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009

7. Guidelines on Advertising & Kids
• Better Business Bureau
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009

8. Rating Systems
• Family Safety Online Institute
Copyright Shelley-Ann J. West, 2009