Giggles Computer Funtime for Baby
© 2006 Leveractive, LLC
If you have a baby or toddler intent on pounding on your computer keyboard, keep reading. This software, available for Mac or Windows as a download or CD, transforms a computer into a busy box for your little one. After installation, nearly every key is childproofed with the exception of the macro keys--such as instant web access or sleep--making it possible for a very young child who has just been dumped into your lap to freely bash, mouth or click, with few worries other than a bit of baby slime. There are ten places to explore, such as a farm where any click causes different shapes or geometric patterns to appear, or a backyard where children can make a rabbit dance--each click causing a fun move. Every setting offers a choice of five musical styles, and all are nicely done. There's also a screen saver option that loads three of the activities on your hard disk, just in case. Why are children so fascinated by your computer? Because you are. What babies really want is your attention, and they also love to explore buttons and things that move. This program enables both of these essential childhood processes. It is noteworthy that the packaging is refreshingly free of references to Einstein and Mozart; instead emphasizing free exploration and perhaps some quality parent/baby time.
$20, Mac OSX, Windows XP
Teaches: casual relationships (cause/effect) colors, shapes, classification, temporal relations, music
CTR Rating: 94%