Making Learning Fun Through Technology! (NAPSA)—In the 21st century, education means more than just reading, writing and arithmetic. Today, developing a child’s techno- logical skills may be as important as learning to read. Almost every American household now has access to three or more phoneconnections and 50 or moretelevision stations. New types of technology are being incorporated into homes and classrooms everywhere. Televisions, computers and videos are no longer just sources of entertainment but are effective learning tools that help children become more engrossed in their subject matter, learn more quickly and becomeproficient in critical thinking. The DVD format has become one of the most popular types of video technology that can help to make learning more exciting. The Warner Bright Kids Collection, including more than 50 educational DVD and VHS titles, is one example of how technology integrates education and entertainment. Teaching children about subjects ranging from the different seasons of the year to valuable daily life lessons, the collection captivates audiences through puppetry and interactive exercises. Oneof the titles featured in the Warner Bright Kids Collection, the Real Wheels Truck Adventures DVDteaches kidsof all ages about trucks through activities such as sing-a-long songs and an “interactive fire truck.” Caillou: I Want to Grow Up and Child Smart: Your Tiny Maestro are other developmental, entertaining videos included in thecollection. Caillou takes children on an animated adventure and teaches them to appreciate their individual talents. In Your Tiny Maestro, infants and toddlers get an introduction to the music of Mozart and Beethoven through the enlightening Child Smart puppets. Here are some additional tips from Ranny Levy, President of the Coalition for Quality Children’s Media, on how to enrich your child’s educational experience and make learning fun Using technology, such as the video Caillou: | Want to Grow Up in the Warner Bright Kids Collection, can be an entertaining way to enhance the learning process. through the use of entertainment and technology: 1. Look at your VCR or computer as an activity you share with your child, not just a technological babysitter. Find times to watch programs as a family because this is a fun activity that you can do together. 2. Follow periods of media use with periods of active learning. Older kids might try outa science experiment or go to the library to do research on something they’ve seen on television or in a video. 3. Ensure equitable access to technology for all of your family members. If you don’t have a computer at home, there are many other places your child can use a computer such as your local community center. 4. Invest in technology to help a child reach his or her specific objectives. For example, if your child needs help in math and is not very interested, check out some DVD-ROMs, CD-ROMs, videos or websites that make learning math fun. New technologies are being developed everyday. Incorporating these different technologies into a child’s education can make learning become a more fun, lively process. For more information on the Warner Bright Kids Collection, visit Warner Home Video at www.whvdirect.com.
