There are quite a few good search engines for kids and you can also use filters on many other search engines to block certain sites.

As many search engines generate the answer to your search requests automatically they may include links to adult sites unsuitable for children.

These search engines use editors to make sure that the lists of sites that they have, for example, about photography only include sites that kids will like.

Where to find them

Here are some of the most popular search engines produced for kids:

• CBBC Search - Our top link for children's websites!
• www.yahooligans.com - Yahoo's safe surfing site for kids.
• www.ajkids.com - Ask Jeeve's site for Kids allows you write questions in natural English.
• sunsite.berkeley.edu/KidsClick!/ - a big list of safe sites.
• www.ithaki.net/kids This is a metasearch which searches all these sites: Dmoz Kids, Yahooligans, FactMonster, ArtKidsRule, AolKids, AppuKids, Discovery School.

Filtering searches

These are mainstream search engines that allow you to filter search results to remove adult content:

• www.altavista.com - Use AltaVista Family Filter from the 'Search tool' links below the main search box
• www.cleansearch.com - A search engine from Inktomi that filters out adult content

When we think about unsuitable content, often we first think about adult online material. Another thing to think about is whether the search engine you are using accepts payment for listing links or includes commercials on its pages.

Most search engines label these as 'sponsored links' but it's a good idea to make sure that your child realises that some of the links have been paid for.

www.bbc.co.uk/search uses 'family friendly' filters and has no advertising.