Yet another print studio, this one designed specifically for Toy Story 2 fans. Kids can create and print to their hearts' content -- everything from bookmarks and banners to greeting cards and growth charts to stickers and trading cards. . .and beyond! Templates make the process simple, a large array of graphics make it fun, and tools similar to those found in more sophisticated print programs make it (somewhat) educational.
Educational Value
Creative development is an essential element of a child's early training. It instills in the individual a sense of style and aesthetics that will remain throughout life. Creativity software encourages artistic development and expression by giving kids the means to create what they envision, without the usual confines of artistic ability and resources. It also gives kids early exposure to computer graphics skills that they will use throughout their lives, whether creating reports, presentations, web pages, or pursuing careers in graphic design.
To begin their Toy Story 2 projects, kids choose which type of masterpiece they will prepare. They then add characters, props, backgrounds, frames, and photos to make each project uniquely their own. Graphics can be enlarged or diminished, flipped or rotated, and moved at will using handy tools similar to those found in adult print shop software. Included with the program are sample "Avery" paper products used to make stickers and cards. Replacements can be ordered from Avery or purchased at many computer supply stores.
Kid Appeal
As with most programs of this type, appeal is related to the user's enthusiasm for the spotlighted characters. In this case, considering the popularity of the films Toy Story and Toy Story 2, and the success of other related products, appeal is likely to be high. Not only are the characters extremely familiar and loveable, but projects are easily accomplished and the project array is large. Young boys, in particular, will enjoy working with the Toy Story gang to create invitations, calendars, greeting cards and more.
Ease of Use / Install
This program installs without difficulty. It is surprisingly simple to use -- younger designers might need an initial run through with Mom or Dad, but the toolbar includes plenty of options without becoming unwieldy and confusing, and tool icons are fairly intuitive. Importing photos is the most difficult task (as with most programs of this sort) and is also likely to require adult intervention. Photos can be imported from a digital camera or scanner, or directly from the computer (bitmap and jpeg file formats only), and once imported can be edited and added to projects with endless fun results.
Best for... / Bottom-Line
Rainy day projects aren't what they used to be. With print studio programs like this one, kids can create amazingly sophisticated looking projects with a little imagination and a few clicks.
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