Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)We have tried a few 'early computer learning toys' and found them wanting. This is the first one I have seen that is properly interactive, bug free, and well built.
My kid is only 2, so he is officially too young. But frankly, he has mastered the paint part of it already; he is quickly learning the rest.
A few technical points:
1. Yes, its like a USB keyboard but it does not act as a keyboard if the software is not running. So, the kid is not going to be able to mess with your PC outside of the software--a good thing. The software auto-launches and closes with the on-keyboard "power button" so the kid can start it up without help. My kid is 2 yrs old and learned that fast.
2. The tablet is like a tablet, not a mouse. Its position on the screen is absolute rather than relative. It might take the adult (me) a bit to get used to. My kid finds it easy, but he doesn't have 20 years of habit to overcome :).
3. The docs are evasive about where the kids drawings are saved. Here is the answer for Windows XP users:
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Fisher-Price\Computer
Cool School\US\User0\Base
The 'Application Data' directory is normally hidden. Substitute 'User0' with the relative position on the log in screen. The files are regular .png graphics files. Fair warning: don't change these files. The software won't expect that. This is simply a hint for making a copy of them to email to friend/grandparents :).
If there is any downside to this thing, it is that it contains a limited amount of content. The kid hasn't explored all of it yet, but I suspect I'll end up buying the software expansions.
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FOLLOW-UP: A few friends of mine have tried running this product with Windows Vista. Very buggy. I only now recommend this for XP users. Typical of many toy manufacturers, they simply don't get software. It is not a "make once and forget about it" thing. You have to keep and plan for updates as the industry changes. The price they sell it to distributors for should account for those future costs.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Fisher-Price Fun-2-Learn Computer Cool School
This kid-safe, kinder-friendly laptop builds confidence in young ones by teaching important school skills. It plugs into your computer via an easy-to-use keyboard (QWERTY) to provide learning fun throughout five learning centers and one field trip activity. The centers are: Reading, Writing, Math, Art, Music and Science. Activities in each center can be accessed by the simple push of a button. Children can also print out reward certificates and supplemental worksheet-type activities for further encouragement. Plus, parental controls keep kids away from Mom and Dad's desktop, prohibit internet access, and limit the number of prints your child can create. Expandable system includes keyboard, writing tablet with stylus and CD Rom software. Measures 20.25" x 4.25" x 11".
Click here for more information about Fisher-Price Fun-2-Learn Computer Cool School
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