by The Learning Company
Platform:
Windows, Mac
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A diaper-clad rhinoceros, a troupe of Incredible Performing Hamsters, and a mambo-dancing moose are just a handful of the many light-hearted elements that make Reader Rabbit: Learn to Read with Phonics an engrossing early-reading program that puts some much needed fun in phonics.
The program starts with Mat the Mouse singing a complaining song because she can't read well enough to take full advantage of the carnival she wants to attend. This alone is a stroke of genius: it's easier for kids to relate to poor confused Mat than some know-it-all character who already knows how to read (that would be Reader Rabbit, but he serves a purpose as Mat's guide). When her wish for "no more words to read" comes true, Mat realizes a world with no words simply won't work, and sets out on a journey to decode a message that will allow her to make a counterwish and get words back.
The occasionally flat animation is remedied by the volume and variety of early-reading activities. Two approaches to the program help customize it to your child's learning style: Road to Reading is the more structured approach, where kids lead Mat on a path to 26 different lands associated with each letter of the alphabet, and help decode her counterwish. Pick and Play is a nonstructured method of exploring the program that allows kids to directly access the various activities found along the alphabet path. Word Factory is another program element that has nothing to do with Mat's quest, but introduces four more word-building and memorization activities to an already brimming program.
Designers paid attention to details that are important for learning: characters meticulously pronounce words and sound out letters in clear children's voices. Each activity can be played on five different levels, and kids can check their progress and print study words. The program introduces sight words for memorization as well as words that must be constructed by sounding out. Some of the virtual books in this program are more entertaining and engaging than actual phonics texts we've seen. Even the Parent's Guide information was useful, and taught us a thing or two about how kids learn to read. Perhaps most importantly, this CD-ROM's clever wordplay and constant comedic surprises will keep kids interested as they develop the nuts-and-bolts skills that will lead to a lifetime of enthusiastic reading. (Ages 3 to 6) --Anne Erickson
Hop down the road to readingreadiness with Reader Rabbit by your side!Product InformationThere's no better companion on the road to reading readiness than trustedlearning pal Reader Rabbit. Expertly designed for eager pre-readers thisdelightful program gently guides young learners through 26 exciting Letter Landsand a dynamic Word Factory. Every stimulating environment is alive with lovablecharacters and irresistible activities that build key skills such as alphabetawareness and phonics while nurturing all-important early reading confidence. Plus an all-new second CD delivers twice the excitement for doubly effectiveskill-boosting play.Skills LearnedTrust award-winning Reader Rabbit to introduce and reinforce a full spectrumof essential early reading skills: Phonics and Decoding Phonemic Awareness Sentences Vocabulary Spelling ComprehensionIt's never too early to experience the joy of reading. Even the littlestlearners can sing click and laugh their way to essential pre-reading skills inthis delightful adventure designed by early-learning specialists. Get startedwith Reader Rabbit today… for a lifetime of happily ever afters!Product Features Explore more than 100 interactive games and puzzles. Keep the fun and learning alive - even after the computer's turned off - with over 100 printable arts and crafts activities! Sing along with 10 irresistible songs that play on your computer or on any CD player! Enjoy four extra game activities designed to reinforce essential skills. Find ongoing challenge with adjustable skill levels that grow with your increasing abilities. Practice pronunciation and improve phonics skills with record and playback features. Work through every challenge with a smile thanks to built-in automatic help. Parents can track their child's success wit