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The Best Computer Games for Kids 2010

Tracy McGill — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 02:28:50 +0000

Best Computer Games For Kids

Computer games for kids have in recent years been overshadowed by popular console games, but there are a wide range of choices for educational computer games that can’t often be found for other systems. Even if you own every gaming system there is, kids will still flock to the computer and parents love to to see kids having fun while learning at the same time. Another advantage of computer game software is to expose kids to computers while limiting their online use. With the competition, computer games have come down in price quite a bit over the years. Amazon even has a games download store where you can purchase games for immediate download. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the higher quality educational kids’ computer games.

Giggles Computer Funtime For Baby

Giggles Computer Funtime for Baby is a multi-award winning software program developed for babies 6-36 months. Babies watch their parents punch away on the keyboard and they want to do the same. With this software you can let them explore the computer without worry. It’s been designed to lock out your computer so that no matter what key your child presses, your files are protected. With a cause and effect learning system, babies hit any key and something happens on the screen: blocks pop up, sound effects, and animal voices. In the ABC’s and 123′s version the letter and number keys correspond to the letters and numbers that appear so that eventually kids will learn letter recognition. If a non-letter key is pressed then an animal appears on the screen. This game also allows baby to start learning how to use a mouse. There are 14 different activities and 50 songs. This game is compatible with Mac and Windows Vista, NT, 95, 98, 2000, XP, and Me.

Giggles Computer Funtime for Baby Game is sold on Amazon.

Clifford The Big Red Dog Thinking Adventures Game

This game by Scholastic features the lovable Clifford the Big Red Dog as he assists preschoolers with a variety of skills such as problem solving, colors and shapes, classifying and sorting, logic and reasoning, matching, memory, and following directions. Kids can help Clifford get out of a traffic game, play a soccer game, bake a cake, all while helping Emily Elizabeth prepare for Clifford’s Birthday party. With adjustable skill levels, it’s been designed for ages 4-8. This game offers a larger quantity of levels and activities than other comparable preschool computer games. Works in Mac and Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, or XP.

Sells on Amazon.

Crayola Art Studio

In the Crayola Art studio kids can design artwork on the screen with 12 different art tools including pencils, markers, crayons, chalk, watercolors, and paints- and no mess for parents to clean up. This game has won awards from Parent’s Choice and Children’s Technology Review. Includes a beginner’s level to learn basic computer drawing techniques. Kids can use their designs to make greeting cards, illustrated stories and decorations. They can also choose from over 1000 supplied images to supplement artwork or to learn digital editing skills. This game is designed for ages 4 and up. The Crayola Art Studio has received a 4.5 star rating by Amazon reviewers. Compatible with Windows Vista, 98, 2000, Me, and XP.

You can get the Crayola Art Studio on Amazon.

Backyard Football

This version of the Backyard Football game casts kids as favorite NFL football players such as John Elway, Steve Young, Brett Farve, and Jerry Rice. Kids create their own game beginning with choosing the field and level of difficulty, setting up their team, picking the NFL team logo and colors, selecting defensive and offensive plays, and even choosing weather conditions. This game is for one player only, but does include a multi-player networking capability to track stats. Designed for ages 5-10, this game has a wide range of levels from easy to challenging and has received a positive review from Children’s Technology Review as well as 4.5 stars from Amazon reviewers. For Mac or Windows 95, 98, Me, XP or Vista.

The Backyard Football game sells on Amazon.

Scholastic Math Missions

Most kids who find math a drag at school will enjoy math games on the computer. In Scholastic Math Missions, grades K-2, kids must rescue Spectacle City from the mathematically-challenged store clerks. For each correct answer they earn money for arcade games. Math concepts include counting, addition & subtraction, early division, classification & sorting, problem solving, logic, money, measurement, time, temperature, early geometry, and navigation & direction. Kids can choose from 12 activities with 3 separate levels which automatically increases after each successful completion. Also includes useful hints to avoid frustration. Scholastic Math Missions is also available in a version for grades 3-5 which features higher level math concepts. Compatible with Windows Vista, NT, 98, 2000, Me, XP, 95, and Mac OS X.

You can get the K-2 version here. Or the grades 3-5 here.

I Spy: Spooky Mansion Deluxe

Just like the I Spy books, the I Spy computer game series is a hit with kids. A toy skeleton guides kids through the I Spy Spooky Mansion while solving picture riddles and games to find 3 different ways out of the house. There are also hundreds of hidden objects to discover. Learning skills include reading, rhyming, vocabulary, and memory. Also includes 2 fast-paced games and an I Spy mini CD and book. This game is developed for kids age 6-10, younger kids will enjoy the seek and find while the older ones will be challenged by the puzzles. Windows and Mac compatible.

I Spy computer games are sold on Amazon.

World of Goo Game

If you’re looking for a non-violent game to entice your tween or teen, World of Goo by Brighter Minds Media is a multi-award winning, multi-rave review winning puzzle game for kids and kids at heart. Your job is to drag and drop the lively, innocent citizens of World of Goo to help them explore their world, while avoiding the various perils that threaten them. Work your way through 47 levels that depict the imaginative World of Goo which is reminiscent of a Dr. Seuss book. There are 10 different types of goo, all with their own special talents. This game is rated E for everyone, though kids younger than 6 could get frustrated by it as the levels get more difficult. Kids can team up or compete for best scores. World of Goo has received 87 5-star reviews by Amazon users.

World of Goo is available for your PC (Vista or XP) or as WiiWare on Amazon.

Plants Vs. Zombies

Plants Vs. Zombies Game

Plants vs. Zombies by PopCap Games is another parent-friendly, non-violent game for older kids. Okay, the object of the game is to kill zombies, but there is no spurting of blood and the plants are the ones to destroy the zombies. Plants vs. Zombies has won the prestigious Game of the Year award. It’s not especially educational, but rates high on the entertainment factor with 5 game modes and 50 levels in the adventure mode. Use the hilarious variety plants such as pea shooters, cabbage-pults, and jalapeno bombs to defend your home against 26 types of zombies like the pole-vaulters, bucket-heads, and Zamboni drivers. Kids can also create their own zombie which will come to life in the game. This game has earned a 5 star review by 63 Amazon reviewers. System requirements: Windows XP/Vista or Mac OS X.

Plants vs. Zombies sells on Amazon.

Rosetta Stone

Award winning Rosetta Stone is the leading interactive language software program. Using Dynamic Immersion, which is a natural learning process for language, kids as young as 5 can begin using this program. Features include live online sessions with native speakers, headset with microphone to go along with the speech-recognition software, language games, an audio companion CD, and a mobile application for iPhone. You can buy each level separately or all 5 levels in one set, depending on your personal goals and how far you want to go in the desired language. At around $600, the 5-level set may seem a bit pricey, but one study claims that 55 hours of Rosetta Stone is the equivalent of one semester of a college course. And if you have a struggling student, it can ultimately be cheaper than hiring a tutor.

You can get Rosetta Stone on Amazon in a variety of languages including Spanish, French, German, Chinese and Italian.

Energy Efficient Gadget Gifts

Tracy McGill — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 07:16:00 +0000

Energy Efficient Gadget Gifts

Energy efficient isn’t a term often associated with gadgets, especially for those who aren’t technologically savvy. With each holiday season, review sites across the web make their annual picks for the coolest gadget gifts. Generally these gadgets turn out to be novelty items that are tossed aside when the holidays are over. As energy prices rise, consumers are looking for more energy efficient products while still having fun with the latest gadget. We’ve picked 10 gadgets for your holiday gift list that are energy efficient time savers to delight both the techie and the tech-impaired. You may also want to check out our Green Gift Guide.

NIX Hu-Motion X10A Energy Efficient Digital Picture Frame

Nix Digital is a top selling manufacturer of digital picture frames who have created what they boast as the world’s first energy efficient digital frame. It contains a motion sensor that automatically turns itself on when someone walks into the room. It shuts itself off after not detecting motion for a period of time set by the user. Or you can turn off the motion detection and use the remote control. The Nix X10A was selected by Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry for their Smart Green Home exhibition in 2010. This model contains an internal 512 mb memory which plays JPEG photos, MP4 videos and MP3 music so you can play specific music to go along with specific photos to create your own slideshow. I like that one Amazon reviewer used it to play back recorded video messages to their kids when they came in too late. You can read other reviews here. Included is a USB cable to connect to your PC or Mac. The screen is a high resolution 10 inch LCD which features a split screen option to display up to 4 photos at once and automatically converts to portrait size if you turn the frame. A much sought-after gadget gift for a parent or grandparent.

The Nix Hu-Motion X10A Digital Picture Frame is sold on Amazon for $109.99.

Logitech Harmony One Universal Remote

Perhaps the ultimate gadget gift of all, the universal remote has the obvious benefit of eliminating all those pesky remotes cluttering the living room. The Harmony One Universal Remote by Logitech adds the benefit of an energy efficient rechargeable lithium battery with a recharging stand. The downside is the price, being more expensive than other universal remotes, but it is the most highly rated. Features a color LCD touch screen which enables the user to choose up to 15 components with one touch. Set-up is easy with guided online instructions and live customer support. The Harmony One is ergonomically designed and lights up for use in the dark. Amazon offers this with it’s frustration-free packaging, a recyclable alternative to all the annoying plastic casings and wires found in most electronics’ packaging. Gift this to the entertainment lover on your list.

Sells on Amazon for $160.99.

Belkin Conserve Socket Energy-Saving Outlet

A practical gadget gift, the Belkin Conserve Socket is not only energy efficient, but reduces your utility bill by shutting off power with a timer that can be set to 30 minutes, 3 hours, or 6 hours. The green LED illuminates when the power is on. This is perfect for charging cell phones, shutting off space heaters after a certain time, or eliminating wasted power to appliances such as toasters or coffee makers. It can be plugged into a standard outlet without covering up the bottom socket. Ships in frustration-free packaging.

Sells on Amazon for $9.99.

Mighty Bright XtraFlex2 Book Light

This book light by Mighty Bright uses 2 high intensity energy efficient LED bulbs that last 100,000 hours. Push the button to use one or both of the bulbs which are bright enough to illuminate both pages of a book. It’s compact enough to carry in your bag or in your car for emergencies and can clip on something or use freestanding. Includes 3 AAA batteries or can be powered by an ac adapter which is not included. This is the highest rated book light on Amazon with 56 reviewers giving it a 5 star. I use mine all the time and have tossed my other non-LED book lights. Give this gadget gift to a book lover or Kindle owner.

You can get the Mighty Bright XtraFlex2 book light on Amazon for $16.99. You can also get it with the adapter for $24.99.

Sanyo Eneloop 2-AA NiMH Rechargeable Batteries with USB Charger

The Sanyo Eneloops are one of our picks for the best rechargeable batteries of 2010. This package comes with 2 pre-charged batteries and a USB charger to charge 2 AA batteries in 4 hours or 4 AAA batteries in 2 hours. This would make a great gadget gift for a parent who is constantly having to replace batteries in the kids’ toys or the digital camera. Also great for travel with your laptop. Made in Japan, Sanyo Eneloops last longer than other rechargeable batteries and have received over a thousand 5 star reviews on Amazon.

Sells for $9.84 on Amazon.

USB + AA Solar Panel Charger by PowerFilm

A sweet gadget gift for the outdoorsy type, this solar charger from PowerFilm Solar charges 2 AA batteries or a device with a USB port such as a cell phone or iPod. Utilizing earth’s most fundamental energy efficient resource, the Solar Panel Charger by PowerFilm recharges in 4 hours in full sun and the USB charge can work in the dark by using the included rechargeable batteries that store the solar energy. Many cyclists and hikers use this charger as it is lightweight and folds for portability, while still offering a large solar panel. The six grommets featured on the bottom of the charger secure the unit to a backpack, the ground, or your car dashboard. This charger has received an average 4 star rating on Amazon. You can read the reviews here.

You can get it on Amazon for $79.99.

Zipbuds By DGA

Zipbuds are the latest innovation developed by Digital Audio Group, a California company who make high quality portable audio products. DGA describes these cool looking earphones as “bold, not bulky”. The zipper integrated cable is lightweight, flexible, and best of all, never tangles. Uses a patented centralized acoustic ventilation system and noise isolating eartips for quality sound. Cables are made of Dupont Kevlar. Also includes 3 eartip sizes for a custom fit as well as a sports clip. These would make a terrific stocking stuffer for anyone who enjoys the latest gadget gift. Comes in a variety of colors.

You can get Zipbuds on Amazon for $39.99.

Multi-Color E27 LED Light bulb w/ Remote

This LED bulb creates mood lighting with a variety of colors to choose from. Use the remote to select from 16 colors or flow through all the colors with four different transition effects: flash, strobe, fade or smooth. You can also select the from 4 brightness levels. Fits into a standard light socket. You can purchase extra bulbs to go with the remote. These energy efficient multi-color LED bulbs have an average life of 10,000 hours. This would make a cool gadget gift for a teen’s room. Amazon reviewers have given it an average 4 star rating with the biggest complaint being that it is dimmer than expected. Most other reviewers say it’s great for accent lighting.

Sells on Amazon for $32.99.

Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Nighthawk Stainless Steel Watch

Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Nighthawk Stainless Steel Watch

Replacing watch batteries is not only one of those aggravating errands, but the batteries contain harmful substances that you then have to worry about recycling. Citizen has developed their energy efficient Eco-Drive line of watches that run on natural and artificial light. These watches use a solar panel to convert light energy into electrical energy which is then stored in a storage cell. The process works so efficiently that many other features are available to the gadget lover besides just telling time. The Citizen Nighthawk features a pilot slide-rule that performs many functions including calculating gas mileage, metric conversion, and pilot and nautical applications. Other features include the stainless steel band, non-reflective scratch-resistant crystal, low-charge indicator, power save function, and water resistant up to 660 feet. Makes for a classy gadget gift for that special man.

The Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Nighthawk Watch sells on Amazon for $237.00.

HP Wireless Eco-Comfort Mobile Mouse

This wireless mouse from Hewlett-Packard is for use with a desktop or laptop computer. The eco-friendly features are that it is made of 30% recycled plastic, contains a single AA battery that will last up to 7 months, uses an automatic power saving mode, and packaging is made of 76% recycled materials that can again be recycled. Gadget gift lovers will appreciate the high-tech portability of the laser for use without a pad, as well as the 2 additional programmable buttons that allow you to pull up your favorite applications and websites, control volume, and navigate forward and backward. Amazon reviewers have given the HP Wireless Eco-Comfort Mobile Mouse a 4 out of 5 stars.

Sells for $17.45 on Amazon.

Green Holiday Gift Guide: Ten Eco-Friendly Ideas

Tracy McGill — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 19:42:38 +0000

Green Holiday Gift Guide

Do you rack your brain every year, trying to come up with the perfect unique gift? Does the over-consumption and stress of holiday shopping leave you less than jolly? Do you even remember what gifts you bought last year? Or better yet, what you received? Unless it was something awesome like an e-reader or a pony, you’ve probably long forgotten. This year, think simple, think efficient, think green. The following gift ideas are either made of renewable resources or help us in our daily living to save time while being kind to the planet. With something for everyone on your list, these ideas are not only efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly, but sure to be remembered. You may also be interested in our Top Ten Green Toys for the Holidays.

For the Foodie: Totally Bamboo Sushi Gift Set

Totally Bamboo Sushi Gift Set

Totally Bamboo is an innovator in creating cutting boards and other premium bamboo products from one of the most renewable sources available. Bamboo, which is harder than maple and won’t crack or peel, can be harvested every 3-5 years and does not need re-planting. The wood used by Totally Bamboo is hand-selected and does not come from the Giant Panda’s food source or habitat. This Sushi Gift Set includes a 9 1/2″ sushi plate, 2 pairs of twist chopsticks, 2 chopstick rests, and 2 two-inch dipping bowls. The attractive coloring is achieved by steaming the bamboo and will not fade or absorb water. No toxic stains or glue are used. Comes in an all-natural gift box.

The Totally Bamboo Sushi Gift Set sells for $29.50 on Amazon.

For the Commuter: Mobile Edge Eco-Friendly Canvas Messenger Bag

Devoted to exploring green alternatives, the Mobile Edge company has created a line of eco-friendly cases made out of all-natural cotton canvas. Efficient products from Mobile Edge are being featured on this season’s episodes of Glee. The Eco-Friendly Messenger Bag holds laptops up to 16 “. A separate, padded compartment keeps it protected. Other features include sections for files, a removable ID holder with multiple anchor locations, and a padded back panel and padded shoulder strap for comfort. Comes in a choice of green, red, black, and navy.

The Mobile Edge Eco-Friendly Canvas Messenger Bag is sold on Amazon for $35.39.

For the Gadget Lover: Etón FR160B Microlink Self-Powered AM/FM/NOAA Weather Radio

Etón FR160B Microlink Self-Powered AM/FM/NOAA Weather Radio with Flashlight, Solar Power and Cell Phone Charger

This self-powered radio from the award-winning Eton Corporation packs a lot of function into the palm of your hand. Power it by using the built-in rechargeable battery pack which can be charged by the hand crank or by the USB port. Or let the sun be your power source by using the water resistant, shatterproof, glass-enclosed solar panel. Other features include the USB phone charger which can charge your cell phone or mp3 player, 3 LED lights, AM/FM radio, and NOAA Weather Band. Reviewers on Amazon have rated this Eton radio a 4.5 star. This would also make a great gift for the camper or the tail-gater.

Sells for $29.55 on Amazon.

For the Busy Mom (or Dad):

Waste-Less Bags

: Waste-Less Bags

These reusable shopping bags from Waste-Less Bags will come in handy for anyone on the go. They each hold 25 pounds and carry twice the amount of a plastic grocery bag. After use, they can be rolled up to a palm-sized, compact shape for storage. They are each coated with polyurethane which makes them durable and water-proof. The Waste-Less Bags come in a variety of fun colors and have received a 5-star rating on Amazon. These would also work great to use as a “wrapping” for your gift.

The Waste-Less Bags Variety Pack of 6 sells for $20.77.

For the Adventurer: REI Explorer Hat

REI Explorer Hat

Wait, is that the urban sombrero? Perhaps, but REI calls it the Explorer Hat. REI is a company committed to the planet and carries a line of eco-sensitive products. The REI Explorer Hat is made from organic cotton duck cloth, grown without the use of pesticides. Organic cotton duck cloth is durable, mildew-resistant, and breathable in warm or cool weather. Features brass snaps on each side to flip up the brim and an adjustable cotton chin cord. This hat is “crushable”, meaning you can flatten it or scrunch it up for storage and it will pop back into shape. The unisex design comes in a choice of 2 colors: dark khaki or gunmetal.

The REI Explorer Hat sells for $34.50.

For the Spa Lover: Slice of Nature Raw West African Shea Butter

Slice of Nature Raw West African Shea Butter

Personal care products from Slice of Nature are free from chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances. The Slice of Nature Shea Butter is 100% unrefined and organic, taken from the karite tree grown in West Africa. The many benefits of shea butter are not limited to moisturizing, but also include helping to reduce stretch marks, prevent wrinkles, remove scars, and soothe ailments such as eczema, psoriasis, and skin rashes. The most important aspect of Slice of Nature’s Shea Butter is that it’s unrefined, not processed.

A 4 oz. jar is sold on Amazon for $8.99.

For the Wine Connoisseur: Umbra Barrel Bamboo Wine Rack

Umbra Barrel Bamboo Wine Rack

Umbra makes contemporary design products for the home. An eco-friendly choice, this Barrel Bamboo Wine Rack is made of renewable and sturdy bamboo, which is mildew and moisture resistant and won’t split or crack. The unique circular frame holds up to 12 wine bottles saving valuable counter space and keeping wine bottles in the preferred horizontal position. It can be folded flat when not in use.

The Umbra Bamboo Wine Rack sells for $17.99 on Amazon.

For the Book Lover: Easy Green Living by Renee Loux

Easy Green Living: The Ultimate Guide to Simple, Eco-Friendly Choices for You and Your Home

Renee Loux, celebrity raw foods chef, author, eco-consultant, and television host of Fine Living’s It’s Easy Being Green, has written a comprehensive guide on how to make eco-conscious choices in our daily living. With chapters such as 5 Steps to a Green Kitchen, Natural Beauty: The Simple 7, and Energy Efficient Light Bulbs, Renee Loux teaches the reader how to make a home green with minimal effort and expense. She also includes charts, easy to follow step lists, recipes, and product suggestions. Amazon readers have given this book a 5 star rating.

The paperback version of Easy Green Living can be purchased on Amazon for $10.00.

For the Organic Gardener: Norpro 1 Gallon Stainless Steel Compost Keeper

Norpro 1 Gallon Stainless Steel Compost Keeper

If you know someone who’s passionate about organic gardening, chances are they’re passionate about compost as well. Composting is the act of decomposing organic materials for the purpose of fertilizing a garden. The Norpro Compost Keeper holds unwanted kitchen scraps in an attractive countertop container before transferring to an outdoor composter. The charcoal filter provides odor control for up to 6 months. Measuring 10.5 x 8 x 8 inches, the Norpro Compost Keeper is perfect for storing vegetable peelings, coffee grounds and eggshells.

Sells on Amazon for $41.28.

For the One Who Has Everything: An Eco Friendly Gift Basket

Eco-Friendly Gift Basket

Feeling creative? Why not put together a gift basket of eco-friendly products. Throw in some rechargeable batteries, efficient light bulbs, and a flashlight. For the outdoorsy type how about some Pure Organic Snack Bars or non-toxic sunscreen. Some of the previous items on this list would work well also, such as the Waste-Less Bags and the Slice of Nature Shea Butter. And don’t forget the ultimate green by including an indoor houseplant. Put it all together in a reusable, all-natural basket such as the one pictured.

Optimal Gift Wrapping

Justin Thomas — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 00:10:31 +0000

Optimal gift wrapping comes from renewable sources and does not contain toxic substances. Virgin forest fiber, bleach and heavy-metal inks need not be a part of gift giving. What are some of the better choices? One of the more optimal ways to wrap gifts is Furoshiki, a traditional Japanese technique of wrapping gifts using cloth. The appeal of this form of wrapping is that the cloth is reused for other purposes, see our previous post for more information on this optimal technique.

Another optimal way to wrap gift is by using tree-free or recycled paper. One company, Paporganics, makes a range of Hemp Wrap designs, which are printed with vegetable-based inks on sheets of hemp blend paper. The long fibers of hemp and flax add strength to the shorter recycled fibers. They even sell natural wrapping ribbon which is constructed with a water-based adhesive and colored with soy-based ink. The gift wrap is priced at $4.99 for 2 sheets per package (24″ x 36″).

Another type of optimal green wrapping paper is biodegradable Seed Gift Wrap. These handmade paper rolls are embedded with annual and perennial wildflower seeds. So you can plant the wrapping paper when you are done with it. Seeds include catchfly, english snapdragon, cornpoppy, black eyed susan. It’s made in Colorado. The price is $20 for 3 sheets (24″ L x 40″ W).

Another company that makes recycled gift wrap is Fish Lip Paper Designs. Their holiday gift wrap papers are designed and printed in the USA on 100% post-consumer recycled paper with soy-based inks. The price is $4 for individual 22″ x 33.75″ sheets (with a minimum order of $20). Also available from Green Field Paper (no minimum purchase).

What about gift bags? World of Good carries handmade gift bags that are constructed by family-trained artisans in Sanganer, Rajasthan, these gift bags are made of wood-free paper and recycled cotton waste. The only non-optimal aspect of these bags is fact that they are imported from India (the energy involved in transportation). They cost about $5 each.

What about the tape you use to stick you optimal gift wrap together? One optimal alternative is to use cellulose tape, which is a transparent adhesive tape that happens to be biodegradable too. It is difficult to find, especially in the US. Almost all transparent tape sold here is made of acetate. One store, Green Earth Office does offer it. Brands such as Sellotape are available in the UK. Sellotape is made from wood pulp that comes from suppliers with extensive reforestation programs.

We hope this survey will help make your gift wrapping more optimal. Happy holidays.