Jump Start Preschool '99

Jump Start Preschool is a good program for pre-kindergarten children who are preparing for the next school year. It is not as open-ended and carefree as some of the other preschool programs on the market such as Blue's Clues, Dr. Seuss, Freddi Fish or even the Fisher Price Ready for School Titles.

This new version contains updated graphics, a few new games, and a printable workbook. This is not an upgrade which I would recommend running out to purchase if you already own Jump Start Preschool. I just didn't not see enough of a significant difference to justify the cost. If you are looking at purchasing this product, however, make sure you get the newest version.

One of the most significant upgrades (really the only one worth mentioning with any enthusiasm) is the new tutor-mode. If your child gets several questions wrong, they are transported to a tutorial booklet which reviews the concept being tested. Tested is the operative word here. All exercises have right and wrong answers, there are no creative activities here other than the sing-a-long songs. Your child accumulates train tickets for a final train ride by answering questions correctly. Three skill levels can be adjusted by the child or parent as needed. If you like, your child can take an assesment test to determine the correct starting level.

Descriptions of activities included:

Catch the Ball- Catch the correct color ball with your moveable wagon

Toy Clean-Up- Help put toys away based on their beginning sounds. At higher levels, toys start with vowel sounds.

Dot-to-Dot- Do these puzzles with either numbers or letters

Hidden Figures- Numbers, letters, or shapes are 'hidden' (read stuck on the picture) for your child to find. Some of the numbers were too light to be seen easily, and some pictures were just too easy.

Player Piano- Sing along with the characters when you choose one of five classic children's songs.

Dress-Up- This matching game has your child find the pieces of clothing which match the characters outfit shown.

Kitchen Fun- The cook needs your child's help. He will tell your child what item is needed from the fridge, and how many are needed.

Hide and Seek- A fun activity similar to those found in Big Thinkers First Grade. Your child must turn out the light, and then find Casey the mouse based on visual clues he gives.

The opening instructions are rather verbose, and your child may need your help knowing what to do. There are nine blocks at the bottom of the screen, each representing a different tool. This may be a bit overwhelming for younger preschoolers.

There is nothing particularly wrong with this program, but it is not one of my favorite Jump Start programs. The activities are nothing more than you could find in an inexpensive preschool workbook. I would recommend utilizing other, more creative, preschool programs and saving your money for some of the more stellar Jump Start titles.

Grading for Jump Start Preschool 99 Educational Value- 3 1/2 Entertainment Value- 3 1/2 Replay Value- 3 Ages- 2-4

Buy JumpStart Preschool Deluxe at Amazon!