When it comes to choosing computer games for your child, the choices can be confusing. But there is something you can do to make your decision easier. Try software before you buy.
That’s right, you can actually try out many different educational software programs before you decide on the one that best suits the needs of you and your child. How do you do it? There are several ways.
On-line trials
Many software publishers’ (including Brighter Minds Media) websites offer on-line and downloadable trials of their software. This is a terrific way to get a look and feel for a title. All you have to do is go to the website and click on the downloadable or on-line games link and you will be shown the titles the publisher has available.
With one click, you will be able to download a trial version of a product. These versions are designed to run from 20-60 minutes to give you a feel for the game without giving away the whole product. Once you are finished with the trial, you will be given the opportunity to buy the product right there by purchasing the product from the company’s website.
Libraries
Many public and school libraries now offer computer-based learning games that you can borrow and try out. Drop by your local library’s children’s department and ask the librarian about their New Media department. There you will often find a large group of children’s software that can be checked out and taken home for evaluation.
The one drawback to this process is that a lot of libraries have a tendency to not have the most current games. So while you may find enjoyable games, you may not find ones that are currently for sale in the stores.
Friends
If you want to see what your kids like, see what their friends like. Borrowing computer games from friends is a fantastic way to evaluate software. Many times my kids have wanted a specific computer game that their friends have. However when we’ve borrowed that game from the friend and actually played it, we’ve found that the gameplay wasn’t right for our child or that the education level was too low or too high.
Also when it comes to non-educational products (games), you can use this method to see if a game is appropriate for your child. Borrowing a game from a friend and playing it yourself without the child around can give you insight into the content of the game. This can help you make the decision on whether the game is right for your child.
Making the right choice in buying a computer learning game for your child can be time consuming, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating. A little research and some asking around can help you save money by not buying a game that you or your child will not enjoy.
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