My kids both LOVE playing on the computer – and spend hours each week playing various games. I love it because it they are able to keep the tv off for a while and have the opportunity to learn in really fun ways. While they have their regular *go-to* sites, they also love finding new sites and games. Which is why, when I was offered the chance to review JumpStart, I jumped at the chance. Unfortunately, because our computers were recently formatted with a different operating system than Windows, we haven’t been able to maximize on this. But don’t fret – we are in the works of getting this fixed asap!
However, on a recent date with Jonah to the local library, I was thrilled to see that they have JumpStart included in their computer games. So we were able to spend some time together testing it out. One word. AMAZING!
The JumpStart website is easy to navigate, the games are easy to understand (yes, even for my 4 year old), and tons of fun. I fully admit to getting caught up in it and playing right along with Jonah {(I even wore the tiger headphones the library provides lol). I can’t wait until our computer is reformatted (again!) so the kids can really maximize on this trial. And, because each JumpStart account opened has space for SIX kids, they will be able to each have their own *file* plus be able to share with their cousins. How awesome is that – and great for families with more than a couple of kids!
For more than 15 years, Knowledge Adventure has set the standard in kids’ software by creating the finest educational products for use in the home and the classroom. In addition to our CD games, they’ve launched a browser-based virtual world at www.JumpStart.com for kids 3-10 years old. Kids can create avatars called Jumpeez and explore magical worlds, discovering and unlocking games, videos, and storybooks that teach everything from math to reading. And they are constantly adding more features, portals and learning games to the site!
And recently (January), they have launched another online virtual world called Math Blaster, for kids ages 6-12. Kids can create avatars called Blasters as they become the newest cadets at Blaster Academy. After completing arcade-style math challenges and racing through high-speed missions, they become members of the Intergalactic Space Patrol and explore futuristic world, voyage to strange new planets and discover wacky alien races, all while practicing their math skills.
I was given the choice between both of these, but ultimately chose the JumpStart over MathBlaster simply so that both of my kids could play. But let me tell you – Math Blaster may just be joining our family very soon as well! Math is easily my daughter’s least favorite subject, so I would love to help her find more ways to have fun with it.
For now – and as soon as our operating system is compatible – we will be enjoying JumpStart! There are many places to explore – the first called StoryLand, aimed at 3-5 year olds. Children can also explore AdventureLand and MarineLand, designed for kids in kindergarten to second grade. In addition, children in 3rd to 5th grade may be interested in checking out FutureLand, geared towards older children. They also just launched their most popular area, the Enchanted Sanctuary, where kids can hatch and raise their own dragons! (How cool is that!)
I seriously cannot say enough good things about this website and all that it offers….and am looking forward to more time spent learning together with my kids.And some time playing some games *just for fun* – JumpStart really has a great balance!
And thanks to Knowledge Adventure, one lucky winner is going to receive a 3 month trial membership! Won’t this be a perfect Christmas gift!
“Disclosure: I was provided with a JumpStart membership at no cost by Knowledge Adventure in order to test the products’ abilities and give my own personal opinions on it. The opinions I have given are mine and may differ from others but were not influenced by the company or the free product provided.”
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