Software for children’s learning concentrates mainly on education of young children at home. These packages usually link the learning material to the school syllabus, hence making them more popular. The fun angle introduced into this type of learning by the use of computer games, make them more attractive to the children. However these differ from the computer games where fun outweighs the learning process. Disney characters such as “Winnie the pooh”, “Alladin” and “Mickey Mouse” are used in interactive learning. Software for improving mathematical ability are available. Software, which improves general knowledge and science, has also proved very useful. This software will involve simple exercises that keep the child hooked and educate it at the same time. Software for learning words, numbers, counting, etc. is usually developed for children in the age group of 3-6. For older children, more complex sentences and calculations are included.
Children’s learning software encourages independent learning, which helps parents to have a little more free time and the child enjoys learning as well. The disadvantages would be stunting in development of social skill because of addiction to these activities. Overuse of computers can also have negative physical effects on a growing child like posture, strain to the eye, etc. Hence parental supervision is advised for young children, especially while using internet as inappropriate sites can be accesses and a certain time limit needs to be exercised so that the physical activity of a child doesn’t get interfered. Inspite of the disadvantages the advantages outweigh the negative effect when used right.
