Games on CD for Kids

Kids can play CD games on computers.

CDs and DVDs are good for more than just listening to music and watching movies. Kids can play interactive games from CDs that provide hours of entertainment, exploration and learning. Different CDs work with different kinds of consoles and computer systems and may need to fit within specific system requirements to play.

Types

Kids can play CD games on a PC or a gaming console, such as the Xbox, PlayStation or Nintendo Wii. CDs only work on the specific system that the disk was created for. For example, you cannot play a PC game on any of the consoles, while a CD made for the Xbox will not play on the PlayStation or Nintendo Wii. However, some gaming consoles are backwards compatible, meaning that the newer systems can still read and play the CDs from the previous gaming system. For example, a PlayStation 2 console can read and play some games made for the original PlayStation console.

Games

A wide range of educational games for kids is available on CD. Games such as the "Blaster" series, "JumpStart" series and "Sesame Street" series complement school learning. These games target a specific age range or school grade and often offer a new game for each grade of learning as the child develops. Topics include reading, math, science and geography.

Use and Care

Console games do not require you to install the game before you play it. The child only needs to place the CD in the system to play. The PC games, however, often do require installation. Because software installation can change information on your computer, you should always install the game for your child or supervise the installation. CDs are also easy to scratch and break, which can cause the disk to stop working. If your child is very young, you should supervise him or place the CD in the system for him.

Value

Games on CD can provide an interactive experience for children, which can make learning and reading fun. Game scenarios often rely on reading, problem solving and numbers to progress through the game. This encourages kids to think critically, interact with stories and observe the outcome of choices they make. Console games also help children practice hand-eye coordination skills, while PC games encourage children to type and practice using a computer mouse.

References

• Council on Library and Information Resources: Care and Handling of CDs and DVDs
• Marc Prensky: What Kids Learn That's Positive From Playing Video Games

Resources

• Jump Start