It’s offering parents a free trial before its launch.

That PBS is catering to this age group is important because more children at youngerages are going online.

Webkinz and virtual world Club Penguin attract millions of kids typically between the ages of 7 and 14.

For that reason, Aftab gave a vote of confidence for PBS' online service.

“If anyone’s going to do it online, PBS will do it,” she said.

The Discovery Channel has introduced a similar online education site, but for slightly older kids.

(It requires a 3-megabyte download, however.)

Play also features video programming, commercial free, from PBS.

Shows might include clips fromMister Rogers' Neighborhood.

The site is also largely visual and graphical so that young children can navigate the site easily.

For parents, the system has controls like timed breaks, including tweaks for each child in the family.

“This is an ad-free safe haven for kids that’s also educational.”

Send insights or tips on this topic tostefanie.olsen@cnet.com.