HOUSTON – A popular online fashion game played by children is drawing criticism from some parents and child experts for the messages it sends.
"I am actually quite shocked by this application," said Dr. Amy Middleman with Texas Children's Hospital.
Top Girl is a popular online shopping game. It is rated for ages 12+ for infrequent/mild alcohol, tobacco, or drug use references, but even younger children are playing it.
"Yes, I have it on my iPad, actually," said Jessica Nilsen, 9.
The fourth grader said she loves fashion and the game game but her mother was surprised to learn there was more to the game than fashion.
Players flirt with future boyfriends by buying them a choice of beer, liquor, or wine.
"I think we will be taking that off her iPad," said Melissa Nilsen, Jessica's mother.
"I certainly don't want her playing games that are suppose to be fashion. She really likes fashion and then finding out that it is all about flirting with boys," said Jeanine Brown, a mother of four whose 6th grade daughter said she also played the game.
Players get to shop and pick out their own fashions before doing modeling jobs, working, and finding a boyfriend at a club, but the player can't get into a club or keep a boyfriend if they are not dressed "hot" enough.
"It is very concerning that the primary goal of the young lady in this game is to look better so other people like them," said Dr. Middleman. "One of the biggest problems with an application like this is they are targeting children at an age where they can't fully understand the message they are being handed."
Doctor Middleman believes the application is encouraging risky behaviors most parents would hope their children would avoid.
CrowdStar, the maker of Top Girl, did not respond to questions about the game.
Cammie Moise, the owner of CyberSafeFamily in Houston, said there are ways for parents to monitor the apps their children are playing:
- Have a parent account: Have a "parent" account for apps on iTunes. Do not share the password with kids. When they want an app, they must ask you to type in the password.
- Try app first: If you are not familiar with the app, try it out before agreeing to download it for your kids. Find out how players move ahead in the game.
- Know privacy features: Find out what private information is shared with other users.