Noggin (www.noggin.com)
© 2007 Nickelodeon Kids and Family Group
Note: Noggin was merged into Nick Jr. Noggin.com is an ad-supported site for preschoolers that features popular characters from their programming. Activities include games, videos, and printables. In Oobi's Rhyme you are asked to click on the picture which rhymes with a given picture. The directions are straightforward and Oobi is right there guiding you through the activity. In Franklin's Scribblevision, you can paint a picture of characters. You are given several size paint brushes and several paint colors from which to choose. The painting is realistic with you controlling the brush not the computer. Work may be saved to your cubby. Video clips feature TV content. There is a lot of commercial content. There was a rotating banner advertising kid's cleaning products, Dixie cups, and Target stores. When we first clicked on a character to see the listed activities, we were first shown a coupon for Polly Pocket Dolls. There were also ads for sites that advertised mortgage rates, college programs and a link to the RealArcade site. A side banner ad contained a link to the Comcast site. Strengths/Weaknesses: We were impressed with the amount of and variety of activities. Skills such as matching, rhyming, and creative thinking are reinforced. Note that a click on certain characters (Dora, Blue's Clues, Wonderpets, and Backyardigans to name a few) takes you to the NickJr.com site. There is a detailed Parents page with learning advice and helpful information. This site will entertain while teaching your child. See also www.mynoggin.com, a subscription only service.
Internet Site
Teaches: rhyming, counting, Music, Art/Creativity, Language
CTR Rating: 90%