Bundles can be an economical way to add variety to a child's
software collection--that is, when the bundled programs are worth
installing. Fortunately, each of the three titles in JumpStart
1st-3rd Grade Learning Playground are valuable.
Two of the titles in the bundle were originally designed for
second-graders: JumpStart Reading is a good program for
developing early grade reading skills. Children lead CJ the Frog
on a search for a lost city. Along the way, they play word puzzles
(such as word searches), identify contractions (such a, "we
will" = "we'll"), form compound words, identify
synonyms, and more. JumpStart Math is another title that
uses an adventure as the lure for children to participate in
skill-building activities. CJ the Frog is now the Royal Flycatcher
in a medieval castle, and he sets out to help a princess, whose
family and friends are trapped inside a mirror! Finding
ingredients for a potion that will save the day requires plenty of
math exercises. Kids work with telling time, fractions, early
geometry, story problems, money math, and so forth.
Both JumpStart Reading
(pictured at left) and JumpStart Math are
good at reinforcing skills. They are not especially useful for
teaching new skills, but are appropriate for children who know the
basics but require practice.
The third title in the set is JumpStart Explorers.
Children play a game of hide-and-seek through time via a time
machine. Kids need to find the hiding tadpoles in five different
time periods, such as ancient Egypt and the Plymouth Colony. The
graphics are eye-popping, and the learning environment is as
playful as you can get. Players pick up assorted facts about
history and world cultures.
All three titles are certainly "edutainment" titles.
Both JumpStart Reading and JumpStart Math are skill-builders and
JumpStart Explorers offers a unique experience. The low price tag
on this bundle is certainly appealing as well -- it's a good buy,
especially for kids who need playful environments to encourage
them to practice academic skills.
For more information, user reviews, or to
buy:
JumpStart 1st-3rd Grade Learning...
