This article examines how play is affected by computers and digital toys. Research indicates that when computer software targeted at children is problem-solving oriented and open-ended, children tend to engage in creative play and interact with peers in a positive manner. On the other hand, drill-and-practice programs can be quite boring and limit…

Many gifted children are exposed to music as listeners or performers or both. Children who are sophisticated listeners recognize the importance of and differences between the various works they hear and are knowledgeable about a sometimes large and significant repertoire. Children who are gifted performers are able to make a musical composition…

Ideas are presented for identifying, evaluating, and selecting instructional software for children with special needs. The article notes several library research tools as sources of information and lists specific questions to consider when evaluating software. (JDD)

"Family Computing" magazine's Critics Choice Awards for Educational Software Excellence are presented annually. The 35 software programs selected in June of 1986 are listed. (MT)

The paper explores the capabilities and limitations of computerized spelling checkers, and describes "School Speller," which operates with the "Magic Slate II" word processing package. Program features include requiring students to practice spelling by re-typing words unrecognized by the program, and allowing teachers to view the accumulating list…

Three major ways parents can restrict the material their children experience online include using commercial online services with parental control features, installing other parental control software, and using the Platform for Internet Content Selection. Parents must protect their children's privacy, be aware of commercialism online, and take…

Discusses the issue of microcomputer use with young children, describes several computer programs designed primarily for children's enjoyment, presents caveats regarding present state of the art of preschool software, and lists several recommended programs. (MBR)

The article describes the IBM/Special Needs Exchange which consists of: (1) electronic mail, conferencing, and a library of text and program files on the CompuServe Information Service; and (2) a dial-in database of special education software for IBM and compatible computers. (DB)

There is a large variety of public domain software, which is free for anyone to copy and use with their personal computer, including educational programs for disabled persons. Examples of public domain software are listed along with guidelines for obtaining programs, including the addresses of several computer users' groups. (CB)

To help parents select educational software that will supplement their child's schoolwork, purchasing guidelines are suggested. Two books for further reading are recommended. (JL)

Provides complete listing of an Applesoft arcade-style game which teaches rapid recognition, discrimination, and sequencing of the alphabet. Four levels of play are featured for sequential reinforcement of these skills. The game also trains left-to-right scanning, promotes development of visual-motor integration skills, and develops directionality…

The home computer must be outfitted with high quality software to be a valuable educational tool. Suggestions on where to look for software and standards to use in evaluating materials are offered. (DF)

Parent guidelines for selecting appropriate software for three- to five-year-olds address trying the software out, what to look for, and what to expect. Evaluation criteria cover appropriate vocabulary level, individual needs, child involvement, target audience, creative presentation, and useful feedback. (CB)

Evaluates 25 software packages (consisting of more than 40 individual programs), all aimed at one or another facet of mathematics learning. Title, source, current price, and detailed review (indicating the educational quality of the package) are included for each entry. (JN)

Addresses the question of what parents can do to help their children get a better education by using computers at home. The age span covered ranges from preschool to high school. Sources of educational software catalogs and list of educational computing magazines with applicability to home use are included. (JN)