KIDSDOM: AN INTERNET-BASED ALCOHOL PREVENTION TOOL

Danya International, Inc., Silver Spring MD

Investigators

Abstract

In this Small Business Innovative Research Fast-Track proposal, Danya International Inc. proposes to develop Kidsdom, an alcohol prevention Internet adventure site. Research in the alcohol prevention field would strongly suggests that interventions should be implemented before the onset of alcohol use. By targeting elementary school children with an engaging, interactive alcohol prevention effort, Kidsdom can be used in schools and in the home to influence knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy and behavior as they relate to alcohol prevention. Although numerous Internet sites exist for children in this age group, none provide comprehensive, skills-building alcohol related content. The proposed Kidsdom site will fill this niche using progressive technology combined with strong, research-based content. During Phase I, a prototype will be developed and a pilot evaluation will be conducted to determine Kidsdom's feasibility and effectiveness. In Phase II, the remainder of the site will be programmed, and a large-scale evaluation will be conducted to determine the effectiveness of Kidsdom in fostering knowledge, healthy attitudes, self-efficacy and safe behavior with regard to alcohol use. During Phase III, Kidsdom will be marketed to schools and parents nation wide. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: At present, no Internet site provides age appropriate information on alcohol prevention to an audience of 8 -11 year olds. The Kidsdom site promises to fill this niche through a media-rich, theory-based and engaging adventure world on the Internet. Income will be generated through the sale of the teacher guide to school districts, advertising on the space, and merchandising of products related to the web site.