Chatman: Safe Internet Browsing for Young Children {Technology}

Chatman is the first artificially intelligent friend, designed to make chat sessions, web surfing or gaming more creative, fun and secure for children (ages 6-12). This super adorable little pal talks, moves his eyes, hands and ears and has an animated LED mouth.

Chatman intuitively understands language, context and mood and he has his very own personality. After you get him out of the box, all you have to do is connect him to a USB port and install the software (included) and you are ready to play. (Chatman is compatible with both PC and Mac computers).

This little friend will alert your child when they encounter dangerous or inappropriate content while they are chatting or surfing the net. Chatman “listens” to chats on Facebook, Skype, MSN, sending alerts when inappropriate search or chats are attempted. Parents can even add  malicious expressions or questions to watch for.

Children can surf the internet directly from the Chatman software and it works just as well as using any other internet browser.  I tried a few searches and nothing came back with websites that were unsafe or harmful.

You can also chat directly with Chatman and ask him questions (he can even help with homework). I asked a few questions that he didn’t know the answers for and the smart software allows you to search the Internet to find an answer with one click. You can also play games together and watch videos (Youtube videos that are all child friendly).

I like that you can change the volume of his voice within the software and there is a “mute” button on the top of his head that is easy to access. Great when the phone rings or you need a quiet moment.

Chatman recognizes over 15,000 words and he “learns” new words you teach him, he can also help remind you events like birthdays, parties, or homework as the software comes with a built in reminder app.  There are always new apps available to download at www.mychatman.com so kids are always entertained.

Of course Chatman doesn’t replace parental supervision completely but it is a fantastic tool that allows solid parental controls to be implemented while creating a safe zone to keep children safe while they are online,   all while engaging the child and encouraging emotional development and communication.

Chatman also keeps toddlers entertained while the older kids are online.  My 18 month old found him hilarious, see the video below: