Believe it or not, Ebay can be an incredible learning tool for your children!!! It is important that your children know what you are on doing while you are spending your time on the internet so they can learn responsible use of the web, specifically, Ebay. It is so easy to get caught up in an auction and lose sight of the fact that you may be bidding on an item just to "play the game" and win. With this said, have your child earn money by doing different chores around the house. Teach your little one the importance of saving his or her money in the bank or a piggy bank of their own. Let them save up their money for a month, and at the end of the month sit down with them at the computer and make a list of all their interests. During this time you will really get an understanding of what your child enjoys, which is good for both of you. Once you've made your list, teach your child how to search using key words from their list. Teach them how to do their research and not bid on the first thing they see. Also, be sure to explain to them that they only use the internet under your supervision!! That is MOST IMPORTANT! After they have found what they are interested in, bid on the item. Depending on how many days are left to the auction, it will be exciting for your child to keep up with it to see if they are still the highest bidder. DO NOT let them exceed the amount of money they have. This is another important lesson; We can't spend more than what we have!  If they lose that particular auction, find another one that they can afford. If they WIN, celebrate!!! If you shop on Ebay, you know how exciting it is when you receive your item in the mail! Waiting for their special purchase will teach your child that things are not always automatic! I believe that making this purchase on Ebay is most often better than going to the local store and buying something there. For one, they'll learn they can get a better bargain if they buy used. Secondly, a lot of times your kids buy something from the store and forget about it a day later. The whole Ebay experience might make them appreciate their treasure just a little more!!