We believe that children benefit most when the computer is one of the many learning centers in the early childhood classroom. The computer used in this way simply provides children with another medium through which they construct an understanding of the world around them.

KIDWARE has grown out of our continued interest, concern, and commitment to children and teachers. Over the past twelve years (since the original KIDWARE2+ Learning Center was first published) we have continued to observe young children interacting with computers, and to listen to their teachers. The results of this intensive observation and listening are reflected in the new version of our software, KIDWARE. We have designed KIDWARE to:

• Support the development of self-confidence through independent use of the computer;
• Provide active learning experiences that allow children to develop a framework for understanding their world;
• Provide a risk-free environment that enables children to experience success and stimulates the desire for lifelong learning;
• Help children build a foundation for later academic work by providing many whole language experiences in their native language that are meaningful and relevant; and
• Affirm each child's culture and family background by creating a personalized computer environment that addresses individual differences.

Speech Saver offers the important opportunity for teachers of young children to modify the KIDWARE software to accommodate native language learners. Any spoken language can be recorded and accessed through digitized speech files. This provides children directions and feedback in their own language. The English directions can be replaced with Spanish, Cherokee, Finnish, Mandarin Chinese -- absolutely any spoken language! Modifying the software through Speech Saver is a beginning, first step in efforts to provide non-English speaking children with a connectedness to the school environment. This will help create a meaningful and effective learning environment for all children.