Software for children

A computer at home is great. Computers in schools are fantastic. But a computer alone is nothing more than a machine. When children use a computer they should have adult interaction, particularly when using a software program for the first time. The adult should be available to help the child get all the benefits the program has to offer. The adult should also be ready to assist a child when he or she is having a problem and becoming frustrated. The type of help an adult should offer the child varies with every situation, but the important thing is that the adult is there!
Using computer software is a great way to enhance a child's learning experience, but it is not the "end all" solution. Computers are tools, nothing more. Children still need a parent's time and attention. Children also need caring, enthusiastic teachers at school. And above all, they need to be in an environment that encourages a quest for knowledge.
A quality program does not mean it is a "state of the art" program with lots of "bells and whistles". In fact, many times just the opposite is true! Fancy colors, lots of music and talking characters are nice, but we should look for substance. We look for programs that will stimulate, entertain, challenge and teach a child. With the emphasis on "teach"!
Studies have found that children do not need the "latest and greatest" software. They want software which challenges their skills and abilities. Children are proud when they play educational games and win but they don't want to win too easily. If they do, they get bored. We look for software which won't bore a child, yet not be so difficult that it will frustrate the average child.
In addition, as teachers, we should seek for programs which are stable, which are able to be loaded run without problem. Many programs require us to free up all memory, use special configurations or boot from a systems disk. Afterall, the purpose of children's software is for a child to be able to use it. The child should be able to start up the program independently. If the software is not "kid friendly" then we should think twice before using the particular software.