The Basics: Educational Software

Hundreds of educational and reference software titles are released every year, offering plenty of variety, but sometimes it's difficult to choose which software package is right for your child. Although educational software is relatively inexpensive (most titles are less than $50; many are less than $30), the cost adds up quickly, so choose carefully. The right software offers a good mix of entertainment and challenge to encourage exploration and develop confidence and skill.

Look for software that fits your child's learning style. A child who doesn't like solving puzzles won't enjoy software that uses puzzles as the basis for activities. Does your child get frustrated easily? Look for a friendly, easy-to-use interface. Is your child a follower rather than a leader? Software that focuses on independent learning might not be the right choice.

Many software packages can increase the level of difficulty, allowing children to advance in the particular skills that they are trying to master. There are also help websites that may give additional help to your child in a particular subject.

Build a software library that covers a variety of topics, including subjects that need extra study and titles that encourage specific interests, such as writing or music.

How to Shop

Many companies offer demo versions of programs. Check the company's website; if a demo is available, download it and put it through its paces before making a purchase decision.

Don't make purchases based solely on package descriptions. Check reviews and compare features against the needs, skills and interests of your child.

Use age ranges as a rule of thumb only. Children learn at their own pace, and what's perfect for one 6-year-old might be too fast or too slow for another.

Buy software your child can grow into. If your child is 8, software for 8- to 12-year-olds might be a better choice than software for 6- to 8-year-olds.

Check the system requirements against your computer hardware and operating system. Some programs won't run on older versions of Windows; others require fast processors, lots of memory, or newer graphics or sound cards.

Be wary of bargain bin software, usually marked down 50 percent or more. These are usually older versions of products, and some of them won't run on newer systems. Products that regularly sell for $10 to $12 or less are usually of poor quality.