Chances are, if you are a parent of preschool to elementary school kids, then you have probably heard of Jump Start.  They are the makers of high quality, educational computer software for children.  Their software is colorful, engaging and easy to use.  My kids have used the software a lot over the years.  They thought they were just playing computer games, but I knew, because it was JumpStart, they were actually learning something too. (Insert evil laugh here.)

So, when I was contacted by a JumpStart representative, to use and review the new virtual website they had developed, I jumped at the chance (pun intended).  Jumpstart.com is a colorful world of games, adventures, and quests geared for preschool and elementary school kids.  Of my children, Dirty Harry was the right age, so I signed him up and let him loose on the site.

First, your child will create a Jumpee, a virtual character that will represent them on the screen.  They can make it look like themselves or be as creative with their look as they see fit.  When their character is dressed and named, they can then set out on their educational adventure.  Right now, the site has four different worlds that paid members can enjoy, according to their ages.  Inside the worlds, there are almost limitless games and activities for your child to experience.  And trust me…he will think he is just sitting down to play some video games, but JumpStart has made sure that almost every activity has an educational twist that will enhance their language or math skills in some way.

As your child plays, they will earn coins to spend.  They can use these to buy more stuff for their Jumpee, decorate a virtual room, or adopt a virtual pet.  They can also interact with other Jumpee characters, but in a very limited and safe way.  Jumpstart has made sure that none of your or your child’s personal information can be shared.

Anyone can try Jumpstart for free.  They have a few activities set up that can be tried out, just by creating a free account.  When you become a paid member, however, you and all the children in your family have access to all the worlds and benefits of the site.  You also get a bonus of four complete downloadable computer software packages as well as access to all the parent areas on the site.

I also enjoyed the associated blog:  http://blog.jumpstart.com/  It gives even more detailed information about the site, as well as informing you about any new features that your family can enjoy.

***Giveaway Information***

Jumpstart is kind enough to offer one of my readers a complimentary three-month membership, which is about a $25 value!  All you have to do is leave a comment for me on this post, and tell me that you’re interested in being entered in the drawing.  If you’d like to spread the word about the contest, I’ll give you an extra entry for every time you do that.  You can post on facebook, stumble, twitter, your blog…whatever…just let me know, so I can stick your name in the hat the correct number of times.  I will close the contest and announce the winner on Monday, March 29.

Now, have fun by going to check out that site…. http://www.jumpstart.com!  And tell them The Pirate Mom sent ya’!