Reader Rabbit Playtime for Baby

There are so few products for the littlest one in the family, I can be somewhat forgiving of things like non-synchronized mouth movements, and a little corniness. This program is even easier for babies to use than Jump Start Baby, although perhaps not as 'educational.' The idea, of course, is to have you as a parent using the computer with your child. Playtime for Baby is designed for children ages 9 months to two years. A few less computer-savvy three-year-olds will enjoy this one as well.

From the main screen, your child can access nine activities. While the mouse can be used, no clicking is required. Simply move the mouse over a selection and away you go. Simply pounding on the keyboard works as well, but provides random responses. In this way the program 'grows with your child' as he or she learns how to handle the mouse.

Your baby will be able to make the following things happen as keys are clicked, and the mouse is moved around the screen:

• Create designs with a kaleidoscope
• Cause pictures to appear by popping bubbles on the screen
• Change Matt's (the main character) feelings by selecting various emotional faces
• Play hide-and-go-seek with familiar farm animals, and learn what sounds they make
• Bang on pots and pans, or create music using simple instruments
• Read one of four storybooks
• Place shapes into the toy slide and watch them come down
• Sing any of six familiar songs (an extra audio CD contains more children's songs)
• Find domestic animal friends hiding in a house and learn their sounds
• Practice body part recognition with the lights on or using a fun flashlight

If you have a bit of computer knowledge (ie. you can browse windows and find a digital photo of your child) you can include your child's name and photo in the program as well to make it a bit more personal.

Children this young do not need time on the computer, but they will want it. If the rest of your family uses the computer, your toddlers will want to play along. Fortunately, the control-alt-delete and escape keys do not produce their usual results here! Your computer will be relatively safe.

Grading for Reader Rabbit Playtime for Baby Educational Value- 3 1/2 Entertainment Value- 4 1/2 Replay Value- 4 1/2 Ages- 9 -24 months

Buy Reader Rabbit Playtime for Baby & Toddler at Amazon!