Buying computer software for your child can be a hard job - particularly if the kid is more computer-literate than you are.
Here are some tips, Wendy J. Meyeroff wrote in an article in the current issue of Good Housekeeping, for the dizzy, dazzled parent who has a would-be hacker for an offspring.Know the computer hardware involved. You have to know whether you are buying for a PC or a Macintosh; what size disk the system takes; and if the computer has a color screen, sound capability, and accessories such as a CD-ROM player.
Write technical information down. Even better, bring along a computer-wise friend.
Read the software box carefully. It should tell you the software's technical requirements
Talk to the child's teacher. A teacher can tell you about a youngster's abilities and interests, so you can buy a program to "tutor" him or just stimulate his interest.
Don't take age labels too seriously. You may not think a program labeled "Ages 5 to 10" is appropriate for a 4-year-old. But if she is reading at second-grade level, she will get bored quickly with a program for 3- to 6-year-olds.
Talk to a users' group. User group members meet to trade information, including reports on software. To find a users' group in your area, call the manufacturer of the computer model you are buying for.
Look for programs that require the child's active participation. A computer, like a TV, should not be an electronic baby-sitter. A good program constantly requires the child's input.
Look for programs that encourage creativity. There are many drawing and "painting" programs that allow a child to express his or her artistic side by turning the computer into a canvas.
Keep in mind that artistic programs run better on a color monitor - some even require it - and music programs require some sound capability.
Never buy a program just because a famous character appears on the box.
Ask teachers or computer-smart friends, Good Housekeeping advised, about which manufacturers produce high-quality software for kids.