What are Webkinz®?
Webkinz® are real-world stuffed animals that integrate into an online virtual environment by use of a unique ID included with each animal. The owner of the toy logs in to their account on the Webkinz® website, and enters the new animal code. This brings a virtual version of their toy into their Webkinz® World, where they can then interact with it dynamically. Webkinz® are targeted to young children, generally from the age of about 5 to pre-teens. Like many toys aimed at this market, there has been some concern over the amount of energy focused on them. Demand for new Webkinz® when they are released is incredibly high, and many parents and children become distraught if they are unable to get the Webkinz® they were looking for. Additionally, some have raised concerns that the Webkinz® phenomenon can be very addictive for children. Generally, however, Webkinz® receives positive reviews from parents and children alike. The first Webkinz® were released in April of 2005, and there have been