Reader Rabbit's Complete Learn to Read System

Reviewed by Cynthia A. Sorrels
Published by The Learning Company

Age Group: Age 2 to 5, Age 4 to 8
Type: Language Arts
Price: $70

PC version requires:
486-66, Win3.1, 95 or 98, 20MB HD, 8MB RAM,CDx2, 256 colors

Mac version requires:
60mHz Power PC, System 7.1, 20M HD, 16M RAM, CDx2, 256 colors

Description:

Reader Rabbit's Complete Learn to Read System is a comprehensive reading system that incorporates basic phonics as well as some of the components from the whole language theory. The box includes letter flashcards, flashcards for basic sight word recognition, age appropriate books, a workbook and two CD-ROMs full of activities that will help kids get on their way in the great adventure of reading. There are two modes to play - in "Road to Reading" with sequenced, step-by-step instruction, or in "Pick and Play" which allows the child to choose among activities, books and songs.

Features:

  • Letter recognition and phonics awareness
  • Matching spoken words to print words
  • Enhances early spelling skills
  • Develops reading comprehension skills
  • 5 levels of difficulty
  • Progress reports
  • Program moves at the child's pace
  • 26 engaging storybooks kids will enjoy

Technical Aspects:

We ran this program on a machine with a Celeron 333 MHz and 24M of RAM and had no difficulties of any shape, form or fashion. This title does use verbal instructions that are not printed on the screen. The graphics are cartoon-style and the animations all ran smoothly. Kids will enjoy the songs included here, too.

Report and Conclusions:

If you're going to purchase a program to help your children learn to read, this is an excellent investment. The innovation, fun, and learning are all integrated into one great package - and we've come to expect nothing less from the Reader Rabbit series. At this moment, my 5 and 6 year old have made off with the storybooks and their dad is reading to them in the other room!