My First CD-ROM Toddler

2/24/00

While there is a definite need for good toddler software, this program just did not have what it takes. Several good ideas get bogged down in clumsy interface and slow load times. These are problems you simply do not want to see in a program designed for toddlers.

Six games can be accessed from the main menu. Unfortunately, everything you do requires the click of a mouse. Most good toddler programs, such as Jump Start Baby, Fisher-Price Toddler etc. work by just moving the mouse over objects. Combine this with slow load times and you may find your toddler clicking randomly on the screen, or simply walking away. The system requirements listed on the package are simply too low.

Games for your toddler:

• Pop and Peek: Pop a balloon to see a hidden objects
• Pick a Sticker: Which sticker fits in the shadowed shape on the screen?
• Who's There?: Listen to animals sounds and open the door to see what animal is there.
• Pairs and Partners: Match objects with their companions on the right side of the screen. Requires modified drag and drop.
• Song and Dance: Six cute songs with a rather dull dancing dog.
• Picture Show: Learn new words while looking at pictures that flash on the screen. Fancy mouse trails simply did not keep toddlers' attention for long.

While several of the game ideas are cute, they worry too much about being academic and not enough about being accessible to toddlers. Kids this age have far too many things to do other than play with a computer program that doesn't fit their needs.

Grading for My First CD-ROM Toddler Educational Value: 3 Entertainment Value: 2 1/2 Replay Value: 2 1/2 Available from DK Media at http://www.dk.com