Toys go online

At the annual American International Toy Fair this week, toymakers unveiled a slew of toys that take kids to secure websites where they can play activities without wandering into the darker corners of the internet, reports the Associated Press (via Wired).

Mattel showcased Easy-Link, an internet launchpad where parents can plug a character figure like Elmo and be taken directly to a game section, while Tiger Electronics showed off controlpads that connect via USB, allowing kids to access a host of online games and activities but harbor them from the potential dangers of the internet.

According to Nielsen/NetRatings, the number of online users in the 2-11 age group rose 19 percent to 15.1 million in December 2006, from 12.6 million in December 2002.

Toymakers' latest strategy comes as the nation's toy industry has been under pressure to win back children bombarded with other entertainment options from iPods, cellphones and online community sites.