Hobbies And Interests
My Virtual Tutor
"My Virtual Tutor" games, developed by Mentor Interactive, help teach children in various age groups to read using voice interactive story books, games and more. The company has released three games in the series for prekindergarten, kindergarten and first and second grade. When playing the game, your child holds the DSi like a book, using the touchscreen to write words and play reading-related mini-games. One of the main modes in these games is "Book" mode, which allows your child to have the DSi read the book to her or let her read the book into the DSi's microphone. The Nintendo makes corrections and sends positive feedback. The game, released in 2009, is available online or in electronic stores.
My Reading Tutor
The "My Reading Tutor" game is an extension of the "My Virtual Tutor" series, offering more books and mini-games to help children of various ages improve their reading skills. Mentor Interactive, the game's developer, boasts that "My Reading Tutor" improves upon the original games by utilizing reading education methodologies introduced by the National Reading Panel, an institute under the U.S. Department of Education. Aside from having more mini-games, puzzles and reading books, the game also has a feature allowing the parent to track the child's progress. This game is available online or at Wal-Mart.
Scripps Spelling Bee
"Scripps Spelling Bee" for the DSi is based on the popular not-for-profit national organization of the same name. The game, as you might expect, puts your child in a virtual spelling bee. One of the most popular features of the game gives you the ability to input your own words that you think your child needs to practice spelling. This can be useful for upcoming spelling tests in school.The game verbally states the word and it is up to the child to write out the word using the touchscreen. Instead of using an onscreen keyboard, your child has the option to write the letters out, giving him valuable writing practice. Scripps Spelling Bee also includes eight mini-games to help further improve spelling. The game is available for purchase online or in electronics stores.
100 Classic Books
"100 Classic Books," developed by Nintendo, is a straight forward title, offering 100 books. This game is for adults and children alike, with classics such as "Dracula" and "A Tale of Two Cities." The game turns your DSi into a Kindle, utilizing the DSi's large screen for easy reading. Flip through pages by swiping the touchscreen with your finger or stylus. The game is available online or in electronics stores.