Great Tips for Choosing Math Software

For All Ages

• Look for software you can play with your child. Your interest and involvement is as important as the lessons in the software. Choose titles that you like, too; you'll be seeing and hearing a lot of them!

For Preschoolers

• Choose software that fosters discovery. Programs that let kids play and discover at their own pace make the best introduction to math concepts.

• Make sure the program's graphics are clear, simple, engaging; too many on-screen antics (like animation and music) can be overwhelming for little kids.

• Try using an art program to make up simple math games to play with your child. That personalized playtime will mean a lot to your child.

For Kids in the Early Grades

• Look for titles based on the newest standards of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. That way, your child's at-home computer activities will be in step with what's going on at school. (You'll find one such title, Anno's Learning Games, reviewed on this site.)

• Find out how (and when) your child's school introduces math concepts and skills. Try complementing the curriculum with programs that reinforce specific skills. Or if your child is struggling with classroom methods, try titles that takes a different approach.

• Let your child's learning style be your guide. If your son hates quizzes or your daughter can't stand to be rushed, look for titles that encourage them to develop strategies for solving mathematical problems at their own pace.

For Older Students

• Be alert for math activities within other software programs . Many history, science and geography titles make computational challenges part of their activities and adventures.

You'll find recommendations for the best kinds of math practice as well as highly creative math exploration products in The Computer Museum Guide to the Best Software for Kids (HarperCollins Perennial, $16).