It is hard to believe that Webkinz started only back in 2005. I know it didn't hit me until the following year. At first I thought it was just trying to copy off of the Beanie Baby. I quickly got corrected on that by my daughter and her friends. They are much more than that I was told, a wonderful virtual pet. I thought to myself that this was crazy and these girls must be a bit more then a little spoiled and they are ruining my daughter. I figured I'll let my daughter show me what it was all about by getting her first one of the St. Bernard Dog. I wasn’t expecting much, but I figured I would at least have some quality time with my daughter.   

Despite all of my hesitation, I was very pleasantly surprised. I couldn’t believe everything what was involved. First we had to register our new family member. We decided to name her Fiona. We bought Fiona food and clothes and furniture for his room. Most of all, we had to play with her and give her attention so she knew she was loved. There are a ton of things to do such as math, trivia games, and so much more. I couldn't imagine that a toy like this which I thought was just a stuffed animal, could be so much more. They were not typical Internet or video games which I envisioned, but actually made my daugher think and learn. Two hours had passed and it seemed to fly by, but most importantly I was with my daughter. Webkinz had a new fan and he was well into his thirties and looked into selling them.

My daughter is one of those kids who owns a bunch of Webkinz, both new and retired Webkinz. Each one of them has given her much joy and entertainment. All because of the Webkinz she has a much better understanding of responsibility and a better appreciation for education. She is getting straight A's in school and has so for the past few years. She strives to do her very best, what more can a dad ask for. Now when I hear someone talking about their Webkinz, I smile to myself. I know what I have been through with my daughter over the past few years and hope each and every person gets to enjoy the same thing as I have. These Webkinz are good for a year, so a stuffed animal and a game for a very reasonable amount.

I realized that I would never be able to get time back with my daughter at this age, and I'm glad that I took the time to talk to her. Webkinz opens her eyes wide and doesn't give answers like “school was okay” or “I don't know” or something general as that. It is a great way to bond with them. They are cheaper and cleaner than a real pet too. There are just so many good reasons to jump on the Webkinz bandwagon and I'm glad that I did. My daughter thanks me too. By the way my other daughter is getting to the age, so we here I go again and not hesitant at all this time. I'm looking forward to it.