With so much software on the market these days choosing the best
games, learning activities, and other computer materials for your kids
can be tough. Sure you want your kids to have fun. But the best software
should do much more than just entertain. And you certainly don’t want to
waste your money by purchasing something that isn’t developmentally
appropriate for your children.
So how can you be sure you’re making wise choices when it comes to
software?
For starters, read reviews of any software you’re thinking about buying.
You’ll find reviews in a variety of places. Many computer and parenting
magazines feature new reviews in each issue, and online software
companies usually provide reviews of any products they carry. But aside
from that, consider these five elements when choosing software for your
kids:
1) Educational Value – Most good software programs explain the skills
the program teaches or reinforces. You’ll want to make sure a variety of
skills are taught with any program you purchase. Also make certain the
learning activities are age and developmentally appropriate for your
kids. If you aren’t sure what this means, this is where reviews will help,
and look for software packages that contain a user’s manual which gives
basic information about child development as it relates to the software.
And, of course you’ll want to choose programs that encourage creativity,
imagination, and exploration.
2) Design Features – First, you’ll want a program that is easy to install
and has several playing options. For example, a SAVE option so the
game or activity can be saved each time the child plays it, and maybe
even a PRINT option so the child can print out portions of his work. Next,
check to see that the program offers the learner (your child) clear
directions and on- screen help. If your child is a pre-reader you’ll want
the software to include icons or audio directions, as well. Finally, look for
outstanding graphics and a program that offers animation and sound.
After all, computer programs are competing with television for your
child’s attention and interest every day, so they must look and sound as
appealing as possible.
3) Fun Appeal – If kids don’t like a program it doesn’t matter how
educational it is. Again, read reviews to see what other kids and parents
say about it. Also, check to see that the program offers positive feedback
and methods for teaching children that could not be experienced in a
different media (through books or by the teacher at school, for example).
4) Value vs. Cost – Some programs can seem quite expensive, yet
they’re really a good value because they can be used over and over
again (without the child losing interest), plus they teach or reinforce a
variety of skills. Also, most high quality games and actitivites offer a
variety of levels appropriate and interesting for children of many different
ages.
5) Scary Images and/or Violence – Emily J. Johnson, Ph.D, assistant
professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin in La Crosse,
advises parents to “avoid scary images and violent themes found in
some software. Some children have particularly difficult times with scary
images – even if you don’t see them as scary. And regarding violence – it
isn’t that the child will necessarily turn around and become violent, too,
but he/she learns that violence is a way to solve problems. Plus, do you
really want your children ‘killing off bad guys’ just to learn a math
concept, for example?’”
Computer games and activities are quickly becoming part of the
educational experiences at childcare centers and schools across the
country. Talk to your children’s teachers to see which programs they
recommend, and also find out which programs your children are using
at school. There may be other programs you can purchase that would
coordinate well with these.
Donna Nelson, M.Ed., preschool teacher at the Francis Institute Child
Development Center in Kansas City, says, “the best type of computer
programs for young children are ones that offer a child many choices
and many ways to get to the right answer.” And Linda Bell, M.S.,
Coordinator of the Francis Institute, reminds us that “wise parents and
teachers will view computer programs as another tool to use to help
children learn – and not use them as a replacement for other
developmentally appropriate activities.”
Once you get the hang of it, choosing the best software for your kids
shouldn’t be that difficult. It just requires a little time and research.
Suzanne Lieurance is a freelance writer, children’s author, and owner of
the Three Angels Gourmet Co.
Find out more about her children’s books at http://www.suzannelieurance.com or read her daily food tips at http://www.threeangelsgourmet.blogspot.com
Tags: choosing software, educational games, educational software, kids software, Software