Science Blaster Jr.-

There are very few science programs currently on the market for younger children. Davidson's "Science Blaster Jr." is for children ages four to seven. The "Blaster" series has been popular for years. Now your youngest children can join Blasternaut and his pals as they introduce basic science concepts. While this program was not a huge hit at our house, it is one of so few science programs I have to give it above average recommendations.

The introductory song for the "Blaster" programs remains rather annoying in my book. None of the songs contained in this program were particularly appealing, or earth-shattering. Be aware as your child listens to the 'planet song' that Pluto is no longer a "planet" as far as scientists are concerned. It may take years for all the reference material to catch up in this case. Once you are in the space ship with Blasternaut and his pals you can explore any one of the educational games. If you would like to follow a more planned route, you can choose to go on a "mission" rather than free-explore. My kids usually choose the explore-mode whenever it is available. Three skill levels allow several children to participate. Records are kept for you as a parent which will let you know exactly what your child has done as well as the educational objectives for each game.

Your children will study weather patterns around the world in a fun activity which allows them to explore and experiment. By moving the globe they can "visit" different environments and learn about the weather and habitats during various seasons. If you child likes puzzles they may enjoy putting scientific "stories" in the correct order. My five year old turns up his nose at this game, but it is not a bad game educationally. He did enjoy a game which asks you to make size comparisons. For example, place an Apotosaurus on the screen and find out how many "people it is long," or how many "Triceratops it is long." This is a great measuring game and one which is used in public schools routinely.....well, OK, so they don't use dinosaurs.
Studying music waves and color combinations is fun as you use map coordinates to produce musical "pieces." We had fun making the frog hop around the screen to play music. Other games and activities involve classification, states of water, color combinations and basic scientific thought processes. If your child is really ambitious, print out any of the 30 printable science experiments which can be done away from the computer. This is always a nice touch and extends the use of the program.

I don't know that the "re-play" factor in this program is going to be extremely high. It wasn't at our house. I will admit however, that my kids have never really been thrilled with any of the "Blaster" programs. I have spoken to many parents whose kids have loved and treasured every last one. Sometimes I think it really comes down to preference. There is certainly nothing wrong with this program from an educational standpoint. If your children have enjoyed other "Blaster" programs they will certainly like this one. If your kids like mine can take them or leave them, you will need to decide it you want (or need) a science program. In that there are so few programs for this age group, "Science Blaster Jr." may yet be one of your best choices.

Grading:

Educational value- 4
Entertainment value- 3
Use of medium- 3
Age- 4-7

While this title is no longer available, you can still find copies at CDaccess.com http://www.cdaccess.com/html/quick/scibljrdj.htm