Version: 2008
Back to school downloads

Back to school downloads: Kids under 13

Whether your child is entering kindergarten or grad school this fall, the CNET Download.com library contains software that can help make the most of the school experience. From flash-card programs to homework organizers to scientific calculators, this handy list of our favorite educational programs can help you meet the needs of students in any grade.

Spell 1st Home Edition

If your baby genius is heading off to kindergarten or first grade this fall, Spell 1st Home Edition can teach him or her a list of 100 words first-graders are expected to recognize on sight. The soothing atmosphere and cute animals are suited for small tots, but typing the words after they're spoken can challenge even a five- or six-year-old.

Sight Words Buddy

To help your youngster improve his or her vocabulary, the freeware Sight Words Buddy operates as a sort of multiple-choice flash card for first-grade sight words. A female voice reads a word, and your kid picks the word from a group of three possibilities. Check out the publisher's Web site, too; it has plenty of other quizzes online.

Michelle Reading Timer

As your child gets older, you'll want to make sure he or she is reading enough. Michelle Reading Timer counts down a user-specified time period--say, 15 minutes--then asks the child to enter the number of pages read. The log file lets you check on how quickly and how much your kid reads.

Math Crony

This application will pester you to register, but Math Crony's great reporting tools and huge number of quizzes set it apart. The program categorizes addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems by the number of digits so that any child can practice basic math skills.

Math Compass

The levels of difficulty really ramp up in Math Compass, especially for multiplication and division. Logging isn't as convenient as with some programs, but the ability to generate quiz sheets and answer sheets blew us away.

World Geography Games

Children can learn all about the seven continents and four oceans by picking them out on a map of the world. World Geography Games' four levels of difficulty and good reporting tools help students get a grip on the globe.

USA Puzzle

Learn the state capitals, birds, trees, mottos, and other data through quizzes and games. You'll have to register to get past Massachusetts, but the trial should provide enough of a taste to figure out whether you like USA Puzzle.

Science Quiz

Specifically designed for kids in grades three through six, Science Quiz tests knowledge of elementary school science in topics such as human anatomy and simple machines.

Downloads for junior high and high school students

MORE RESOURCES

Continuing education

You can never learn enough. Learn some tech tips and tricks with CNET's how-to videos and free online courses.

Ultimate setups

What does a well-provisioned student room require? We have picks for every level, plus suggestions for those of you turning junior's room into your own tech haven.

 

Popular topics
Apple iPhone
Apple iPod
Cell phones
CES 2010
GPS
LCD TV
CNET sites
CNET Site map
CNET TV
Downloads
News
Reviews
Shopper.com
More information
Newsletters
CNET Mobile
Customer Help Center
RSS
CNET API
About CNET
sponsored