There are many wonderful software programs available that teach children about their Jewish heritage. For parents and teachers, the number and variety of programs to choose from can be overwhelming. Here is what you need to know about these products in order to make an informed buying choice.

Learning about Torah
Torah study can be challenging for adults. How can one make learning Torah a positive experience for children? First, it must be fun and exciting. Software programs with colorful graphics, catchy music, and interactive games are best. After capturing the child's attention, the learning must also be effective. Did the program overwhelm the child with new terms and difficult concepts or did the program make the story understandable and memorable?
• Torah Tots - Parsha on Parade
• Torah Tots Live!
• Family Bible Stories

Learning about Jewish Traditions
Jewish children who are not regularly exposed to terms like brachot (blessings), mitzvot (good deeds, commandments) and kashrut (dietary laws) can now learn about these concepts through software.  The most effective programs include games that the children like to play.
• Avner & Brachot
• Mitzvah Man
• Let's Keep Kosher

Learning Hebrew
Next to bringing children to Israel and immersing them in the language, the computer is an effective way to teach children Hebrew. These programs should have the children both see words that are written with vowels and hear words that are correctly pronounced. Some games emphasize learning to read and others focus on building the child's speaking vocabulary, so it is best to know what you want to teach your child before you choose which game to buy.
• It's Time to Learn Aleph Bet
• The Aleph Bet Word Book