The Sims is a computer and video game where users can create a virtual world along with characters and scenes. There are many different versions of Sims, including SimCity, Sims Carnival, and Sims 2. Some games are for PCs and some are for gaming consoles, such as the Nintendo DS, Wii, and Playstation. Each version of the games can have different features. On some, gamers cannot connect to other people who own the game; this is different on Sims 2.

The Sims games may contain material that is inappropriate for children. For examples, in the Sims 2 game, couples can fall in love, "make out," and "try for a baby" where fireworks go off when the couple gets under the covers.

Just like other virtual worlds, you want to be aware of how your children can communicate with people they don't know and trust in real-life. This includes knowing if your child has a profile on the Sims web site. And just like any other video game you buy your child, we recommend first reading reviews of the games, then playing the game yourself before allowing your child to play.

Check out Common Sense Media for reviews on the Sims Games.