Software for Babies? 'Giggles' is Worth a Look

When I first heard about Giggles: Computer Funtime for Baby, I was pretty critical of software that turns your computer into a plaything for a baby age 6 months to 24 months. I wasn't convinced babies need to play on a computer keyboard at all.

But I got a chance to try Giggles out at the Toy Fair in New York and I've changed my mind. Sort of. While I'm not a proponent of starting babies on computers before they can walk, the fact is babies are curious learners from the start. And if you are a mom or a dad who spends a good part of the day on your computer, with your baby in eyesight or even on your lap, you know they too want to tap (bang) on those alluring keys, the ones that are winning so much of your attention.

Giggles was designed by Tim Leverett, a multimedia and interactive projects designer who was looking for a way to quell his 10-month-old son's strong desire to tap (bang) on his computer keyboard. The $25 software shuts down your computer's functions, safeguarding your work and programs and allowing little ones to tap at will and have fun things happen on screen for them.

The graphics are terrific, fun and sweet and not overpowering. And the music selection is lovely. Each title (shapes and animals) has 14 different activities and 50 songs. Every time the little one taps on a keyboard key, something fun happens. Giggles introduced a third version, "ABC's & 123s," at the Toy Fair. Something else new: All versions are now available in Spanish and English.

Leverett says the company will release a new title every five months, and he's having no problem placing them on store shelves. Giggles software is sold at Apple stores, as well as Target and Best Buy. (It works on Macs and PCs.)

So while I still believe if you've got time to cuddle with your baby, grabbing a book and reading together would be my first choice, Giggles is not without merit. It allows you to share the intriguing world of your computer with your baby instead of constantly saying, "NO! Don't touch!"

Once you've opened the door to that intriguing world, the tricky part will be to teach your growing, willful little one that the only time to touch the keyboard is when the Giggles characters appear. Good luck with that!