Educational Software

Games have long been used to foster learning. Nursery rhymes teach new vocabulary words. When the process is fun, children are much more likely to embrace learning and not see it as a chore.

Today's ubiquitous computer simply brings a new tool to the arena of educational games. The concept is still the same, only the format has been updated. Children are very comfortable with computers and see them as a great source of entertainment and information. Tapping into that relationship with educational software allows children to learn while they enjoy playing games.

Computers are crucial in very aspect of our lives. No matter what career a child ultimately chooses, the computer will be a key element. Gaining comfort with the computer at an early age will only benefit the child. They will see the computer as a positive element and one that they can use throughout their lives for fun and for work.

Parents should not wait until the school years to introduce their child to a computer. Preschool years at home and in daycare are ideal times for rapid learning. Children are absorbing their environment seeking new information. Educational games on the computer can allow them to grow at their own pace.

At the preschool level, parents and other guardians can select from a wide range of software. Some programs focus on one subject while others cover a wider range of skills needed before the child is ready for the school system. It is important to select software that is appropriate for the child's age as well as software that has skill levels to allow for challenge and growth.

Many of the programs that are popular on television also have educational software versions to be played on the computer. Seeing a character they recognize gives children a comfort level and a desire to interact. Computer games require participation from the child, so it is fun for them to interact with cartoon characters they know.

Before purchasing educational software, read the setup information to make sure it is compatible with your computer system. The label will show what operating system is needed and how much storage space the program will take up. Most programs are relatively small in size and can be uninstalled from the computer when the child no longer plays that particular game.

One popular children's program on television is Blue's Clues. A large blue dog and his human friends work to find clues to solve a mystery. Just like on the television show, the characters visit key locations in the neighborhood to learn something that they need to solve the puzzle. By visiting places like the grocery store, the music store, bakery and library, the game is instilling in children that learning takes place everywhere - not just in school.

Blue's Clues and other programs are designed by qualified educators. They focus on age-appropriate skills and concepts. Blue's Clues Preschool game requires listening, memory and sequencing skills. It has three skill levels that can be adjusted to the child's skill and growth. The skills and concepts it teaches are: Colors and Shapes, Spatial Relationships, Letters and Basic Literacy, Early Math Skills, Numbers, Listening Skills and Patience.