Education tools for children, or learning from play?  

My sister and I went to K-4, but we could read when we were three. And it wasn't because of any kind of program from TV. I think parents just being active with their children aids them in learning. My mom and Nana read to use from when we were babies, and I believe that is how we learned to read. From watching and seeing and practicing what we saw. They never used any kind of teaching tool. If my mom had not had to go to work to help my dad pay the household bills, I think we would never have even gone to K-4, but waited until K-5.

In K-4 they did have phonics, and that helped a lot of kids read. I'm all for phonics, but I don't think they are necessary. I can still remember st in stop, pl in plane...we sang them. I have no idea if what we did was anything like hooked on phonics one sees on TV.

Unless one has a child perhaps with a learning disability, I don't think they need to have school stuff shoved down their throats before they even enter school. Children grow up faster than ever before, and bear more responsibility than ever before. They don't need any help putting more pressure on themselves. I say your way, artemis, is a smart way. Let kids be kids.

children love playing because actually Playing for them is learning. They get many information but I choose to give education tools for children. I think, it more useful and yes it help prepare them at school letter. But the more important for me is How everything tools around them can be media of learning. when they are in kitchen with you,when They hold some stuff, you can give many information as knowledge for them. There is many methode but the point is parent is their first teacher and Home is prime school. So,as parent we must be creative.

I would go for the mixed play option- though if I had a baby I would be very tempted with the Your Baby Can Read stuff. I wouldn't put pressure on my baby though. I would have a vast range of things for them to play with and learn from!

Neither. According to recent studies reading to your child is far better. :) When you started reading to your child from the time you we're pregnant up until she/he was growing up she will learn faster and better. :) And would cultivate interest in reading books and learning. And the child must have less exposure to TV.