Designing Websites for Kids

When designing a website for kids use bright, vivid colours that will visually stimulate the kids. Make sure the kids comeback to your site by creating a happy mood. This can be done by using a cartoon character as a vocal point on the page. Use eye catching graphics in the background or a theme ie for my site it could be a running track or the stadium. Use large typography, large buttons and large icons because they will draw children into your site.

Navigation

When creating the navigation for a kids site make sure you use big icons and large text incorporated with the icons. Also use sound effects on the navigation buttons. Use a voice to help them with the navigation.

Print Out Pictures & Colouring Pages

It is a good idea to have print out pages on your site so the children can print out pictures to colour in.

Below is a list of the best conventional practices for designing a website for kids:

• create elements that are large and visually memorable
• use bright, vivid colours that stimulate the senses
• incorporate elements from nature
• create depth in design
• add navigational elements that are large and easy to find
• use video
• include printable elements
• break the grid
• make modifications based on usability testing

Below is a list on the best unconventional practices for designing a website for kids:

• create a happy, playful mood
• use animated characters
• use graphic-heavy navigation bars
• use flash animation
• use motion and sounds that trigger when the page loads
• include a "games" section
• change the cursor to contribute to the theme
• add voices to navigation rollovers
• be accountable to both children and parents

I found this information on the smashing magazine website below:
http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2009/11/27/designing-websites-for-kids-trends-and-best-practices/