With so much software on the market these days choosing the best games, learning activities, and other computer materials for your kids can be tough. Sure you want your kids to have fun. But the best software should do much more than just entertain. And you certainly don't want to waste your money by purchasing something that isn't developmentally appropriate for your children.

So how can you be sure you're making wise choices when it comes to software?

For starters, read reviews of any software you're thinking about buying. You'll find reviews in a variety of places. Many computer and parenting magazines feature new reviews in each issue, and online software companies usually provide reviews of any products they carry. But aside from that, consider these five elements when choosing software for your kids:

1) Educational Value - Most good software programs explain the skills the program teaches or reinforces. You'll want to make sure a variety of skills are taught with any program you purchase. Also make certain the learning activities are age and developmentally appropriate for your kids. If you aren't sure what this means, this is where reviews will help, and look for software packages that contain a user's manual which gives basic information about child development as it relates to the software. And, of course you'll want to choose programs that encourage creativity, imagination, and exploration.

2) Design Features - First, you'll want a program that is easy to install and has several playing options. For example, a SAVE option so the game or activity can be saved each time the child plays it, and maybe even a PRINT option so the child can print out portions of his work. Next, check to see that the program offers the learner (your child) clear directions and on- screen help. If your child is a pre-reader you'll want the software to include icons or audio directions, as well. Finally, look for outstanding graphics and a program that offers animation and sound. After all, computer programs are competing with television for your child's attention and interest every day, so they must look and sound as appealing as possible.

3) Fun Appeal - If kids don't like a program it doesn't matter how educational it is. Again, read reviews to see what other kids and parents say about it. Also, check to see that the program offers positive feedback and methods for teaching children that could not be experienced in a different media (through books or by the teacher at school, for example).

4) Value vs. Cost - Some programs can seem quite expensive, yet they're really a good value because they can be used over and over again (without the child losing interest), plus they teach or reinforce a variety of skills. Also, most high quality games and actitivites offer a variety of levels appropriate and interesting for children of many different ages.

5) Scary Images and/or Violence - Emily J. Johnson, Ph.D, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin in La Crosse, advises parents to "avoid scary images and violent themes found in some software. Some children have particularly difficult times with scary images - even if you don't see them as scary. And regarding violence - it isn't that the child will necessarily turn around and become violent, too, but he/she learns that violence is a way to solve problems. Plus, do you really want your children 'killing off bad guys' just to learn a math concept, for example?'"

Computer games and activities are quickly becoming part of the educational experiences at childcare centers and schools across the country. Talk to your children's teachers to see which programs they recommend, and also find out which programs your children are using at school. There may be other programs you can purchase that would coordinate well with these.

Donna Nelson, M.Ed., preschool teacher at the Francis Institute Child Development Center in Kansas City, says, "the best type of computer programs for young children are ones that offer a child many choices and many ways to get to the right answer." And Linda Bell, M.S., Coordinator of the Francis Institute, reminds us that "wise parents and teachers will view computer programs as another tool to use to help children learn - and not use them as a replacement for other developmentally appropriate activities."

Once you get the hang of it, choosing the best software for your kids shouldn't be that difficult. It just requires a little time and research.