| There are some great programs out there for | | | | level and can keep young computer fans engaged |
| toddlers and young kids. Placing a child in front of | | | | for some time, though it is recommended to |
| an engaging piece of early learning software is a | | | | keep computer sessions short at this stage. |
| wonderful way kids to be entertained without you | | | | Once elementary skills have been developed, |
| having to be there all the time; it gives you the | | | | simple alphabet and numerical learning is engaged |
| chance to have a little bit of quality self time-to | | | | and this is where interests come in. |
| do the washing, cooking and cleaning done! | | | | Programs from companies like Jumpstart and The |
| Knowing that your child is learning at the same | | | | Learning Company focus on general learning levels, |
| time is a bonus! | | | | such as the Reader Rabbit or Jumpstart Toddler |
| So how to choose the best piece of software for | | | | and Kindergarten programs. These educational PC |
| your toddler or young child? A couple of factors | | | | games are highly recommended as they have |
| need to be taken into account, namely their | | | | been developed by companies who have been in |
| interests and their aptitude level, or at this stage, | | | | the business for a long time and invest time and |
| their dexterity with a mouse or keyboard. | | | | money making sure the programs are fun, |
| We can address the latter point first by simply | | | | educational and frustration-free. |
| saying that almost all early learning software | | | | There are also educational PC games based on |
| programs are designed to actually teach your child | | | | popular franchises that kids love. Titles in this area |
| about the computer. That is not to say they will | | | | would include Dora The Explorer, Thomas The |
| learn about how to script C++ but that they will | | | | Tank Engine, Finding Nemo, Winnie The Pooh and |
| learn that when they move the mouse or press a | | | | Bob The Builder. Most franchise-based software |
| key on the keyboard that something happens on | | | | produced for this level is reliable, because they |
| the screen and the computer will respond, either | | | | have their brand's reputation on the line, but take |
| visually or aurally. | | | | a look at reviews if you are unsure. |
| This skill alone is all that is required at a toddler | | | | |