We have three girls, ages 4, 8 and 11. When it came to learning the times tables, our oldest had to learn them the old, boring way - with games and flashcards (ugh! - I loathe flashcards!). By the time our middle child was ready for times tables, I had downloaded the "demo" version of a particular computer-based game - and all you really need is the demo version, which helps children learn the times tables from two to twelve. If you want different graphics and options, you can purchase the complete version, which gives you several options for different settings. This demo has ugly monsters and is rather scary-looking and violent - your character can die if you get the answer wrong enough times! However, the game did seem to be quite effective.
Although I'm sure the "full" version is worth the money, it's more than we really wanted to spend on a video game. I was leaning toward purchasing the "full" version, though, because I thought it might have some scenarios that aren't as scary - our 4 y/o LOVES to play this game...but I was uncomfortable with it. Our 8 y/o has really learned her times tables using the "old" game, so I really was torn between being uncomfortable with the graphics and having something that really works.
In doing some research for a previous post, I stumbled upon Arithmemouse in the sidebar of a blog I was visiting (thank you, Kathy of Education Tipster!). It sounded pretty interesting, so I decided to check it out - and it turned out to be something that I didn't mind my girls playing - and they enjoyed it as well. There is a free demo for you to download that only lets the child practice the "2's" times table and get a feel for the game. However, this game is HALF of what the full version of our previous game would have cost! So, of course we snapped it up. The 11 y/o - who could recite her times tables in her sleep - even loves to play it, as does 8 y/o. Even though our 4 y/o really doesn't understand what a "times table" is, she has memorized her 2's and 3's from the previous game and is excited about playing this game as well - and I'm not as reluctant to let her play it. Our children do have limits on time spent in front of the computer and TV, but I could give them a few extra minutes to play this game.
When playing Arithmemouse, you control a little mouse that travels through doors in a maze, each with a different multiplication set (such as 4's or 8's) and you practice that particular set of times tables by guiding your mouse through the maze by choosing the correct answer. There is no penalty for choosing the wrong answer - you just get to try again. On the walls as you speed through the maze is a multiplication fact, and at the end of the maze section you cross over a hole in the floor and go up a level by taking the path with the correct answer. There are different colors and/or themes for each level. The mouse looks like a robot and is friendly looking, as are all of the other mechanical mice that scurry around.
So, what are the results as compared to the other game? I'm not sure yet because, quite honestly, we've had it less than 24 hours. However, if for some reason I decide this game is a bust, I'll be sure and let you know! There is a money-back guarantee, so if you buy it and don't think it's the greatest thing since...sliced cheese, you can get a full refund.
Also at their web site you will find a printable papercraft model of the Arithmemouse! If you feel badly about your children spending too much time in front of a screen, you could make up your own IRL (computer talk for "in real life") game!
Again - A big "thank you" to Kathy Stemke!
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