Amy's Wandering

We received a copy of The Tortoise and the Hare from Maestro Classics. The story is beautifully narrated and the music is performed by  the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Even the case is very appealing with its bright colors and adorable illustrations. The narrator’s voice really impressed me. So often recorded voices sound dull & flat, but his is pleasant and clear.

We really enjoyed all of the little extras on this CD. In addition to listening to the story & musical score, there is some background information and a fun little sing-along. A 24-page activity book is included to further the learning experience. You can listen to a sample HERE.

I think The Tortoise and the Hare is best for the younger crowd – I would say kindergarten & down. We are interested in hearing The Story of Swan Lake or Peter and the Wolf. There are seven titles in all.

The Nitty Gritty:

• $16.98 for CD & activity book.
• For a limited time you can get 3 CDs for $45 using the code MAESTRO45
  

Value: This is a high-quality product that can be enjoyed by your family for years to come.

See what my TOS Crew Mates have to say about Maestro Classics!

I received a free copy for the purpose of writing this review. No other compensation was given.

Mathletics is my favorite so far of the math products we have reviewed. It is a web-based math program with over 750 learning activities for kids from 5 to 14.

There are so many things on this site to capture a child’s attention! Here are a few of the wonderful features:

• Each avatar character is fully customized.
• Credits earned from activities can be used to purchase items for the characters like new clothes – a big motivator in my house.
• Students can compete live with children from all over the world who are on the same skill level.
• The problems adjust to your child’s weak areas, giving more practice in those areas.
• The animated math dictionary is fascinating.
• Additional games can be played on the Rainforest Maths site.
• My favorite section is the problem solving section – interactive & very clever.
• And to make this site complete, the parent can print out workbooks to go with every level.

Weekly reports are emailed to the parent so you can see how your child has been performing.

The Nitty Gritty:

An annual subscription is $59, but if you know the Human Calculator’s favorite number then it is only $49.95. (It is the number 9)

Value:

I definitely think you get your money’s worth with this one.

See what my TOS Crew Mates have to say about Mathletics!

I received a free trial membership for the purpose of writing this review. No other compensation was given.

Do you have a child who is interested in creating video games? Tektoma offers a safe environment for that learning to take place. Funny Girl (12) got to test drive this one. She dove into the tutorials and spent the entire afternoon creating games. When asked if she was enjoying herself, she replied with an enthusiastic “Yes!”.

Tektoma offers:

•    Engaging video tutorials for ages 7-17
•    Tutorials of varying skill levels and topics
•    Learn at your own pace in the comfort of your home
•    Natural progression helps develop technical skills
•    Customize your learning experience
•    Low monthly membership fee gives access to all our resources
•    New curriculums available monthly

The games resemble the Nintendo games from my youth, very cute. There is a member’s only forum for posting questions and suggesting future games.

The Nitty Gritty:

• $14.95 per month
• $140 per year

Free Membership Opportunities:

• Free 14-day trial
• Earn 15 days of free membership for each friend who becomes a paying member.

Things I Like:

• The site is moderated to provide a safe environment for kids from 7-17 to learn and create.
• The tutorials are easy to follow. Funny Girl did not have to ask for help at all.
• She felt a great sense of accomplishment for all the work she put into her game.

Value: This is a worth-while tool if you have a beginner gamer in your midst.

See what my TOS Crew Mates have to say about Tektoma!

I was given a 3-month free membership in exchange for my honest review. No other compensation was provided.