Jump Start Phonics Learning Games

While this is by no means a full fledge phonics program, it offers some good review for kids needing a bit more practice. The Learning Games programs are scaled down in comparison to the rest of the Jump Start series. They contain a few good learning activities, covering a narrow range of skills. This program is for kids ages 4-6, or those learning phonics who have moved beyond simply knowing letter sounds.

Jump Start Phonics is hosted by Hopsalot Rabbit, and his friends. Aboard the school bus they are asked to solve the riddle, "Why did the school bus stop?" Clues are found in any of three activity areas. Your child will collect these clues throughout the game. A fourth area includes sing-along songs in 'follow the bouncing ball' format, but no clues are found here.

In the train station, your child will play a 'hide-and seek' type game dealing with letter sounds. A picture is shown, and your child must click on the animals which appear holding the corresponding answer. For example, they may be asked to find all of the words with the same middle sounds as hat, or hot.

In the fire station they will play a fun arcade game. Here they must help the frog as he finds objects in the fire house. He may have to find objects which rhyme with 'kite', or which start with the same letter as another word. They must also watch out for a meddling fire dog. Throwing biscuits keeps him occupied. This is not a fast paced game, but is fun for kids who like this arcade format.

Last but not least, the loft in the barn needs cleaning. Objects will be tossed from the loft, and your child must catch the ones which match the rule given (i.e.. start with a certain sound, or have a certain middle sound.)

The phonics skills here do not get too advanced. Most kindergarten kids will be just fine. Those who are grasping the basics of phonics may find the game a bit dull. There are not a lot of options, and the games are limited in difficulty and scope. This program is best utilized with kids who need a bit more practice, but find normal worksheet boring.