News and Views

Hello. Welcome to the Educational Software for Kids topic. I figure it's time for a more formal introduction, now that I've posted three articles.

First, let me tell you a bit about my background. Two years ago I had the opportunity to write software reviews for Tutor House, an online and catalog software retailer. In that time I wrote several dozen reviews and accumulated a lot of software. I became interested in children's software because my oldest son could already open files, select games, and change preferences when he was barely two. He learned by observation, and we decided we should provide him with some age appropriate software. His interest in the computer has waned, but we still use computer software for educational supplementation, and rainy day fun. Playing on the computer is also an activity my two and five year old enjoy doing together, believe it or not.

I no longer review for Tutor House, but I still am fascinated by children's software. This is why I have opened this topic on Suite 101. Besides, I have to get some use out of those hundred some CD-Roms in my house.

There are many internet sites which review and discuss children's software. How is my topic different? First, my articles and reviews will have a more informal tone. I aim for them be more like a conversation with a friend than a more technically geared magazine article. Secondly, my articles emphasize hybrid software; that is software which runs on both Mac and Windows platforms. I will also point out which websites and publishers are the most Mac friendly. So if you are a fellow Macintosh enthusiast weary of reading reviews only to find out they are for Windows only titles, this is the place to be. On the other hand, I won't completely ignore Windows only titles; I will link to other sites which carry reviews of these. Thirdly, I will bring to your attention software from smaller, lesser known companies. While reviewing for Tutor House, I learned that the best software isn't necessarily the stuff on your local retail shelf.

So now that you know a little more about what to expect from me, let me tell you about some new developments in educational software.

Humongous Entertainment has a new Spy Fox Adventure entitled Operation Ozone. This software retails for around $19.99. Humongous products can no longer be purchased directly from the website. However, I've found this title on Amazon and at Zany Brainy. I haven't found any reviews of it yet, but Humongous software is pretty consistent in its quality. The Humongous Adventure series are quests. Your child will need to use logic, reasoning, and memory skills to solve a puzzle or mystery. The game randomizes, so it is different each time you play.

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