Exclusive Desktop Application Lets Children Play and Learn Safely On Family Computer

20 July 2006

Chicago – According to a recent study, nearly 90 percent of children use video game systems today and 81 percent have Internet access at home. While the Internet can be a great learning resource for kids, it can also be filled with the hazards of unsolicited advertising and questionable content.

In response, VTech Electronics North America, the creator of the Electronic Learning Products category, today announced the introduction of V.Space, a free online educational gaming desktop application that allows children to safely engage in online games and activities.

“Despite parental Internet concerns, the reality is, Internet access and online gaming among kids is extremely high and continues to grow,” said Julia Fitzgerald, vice president of marketing, VTech Electronics North America. “V.Space is the solution to making both parties happy – children can play the computer games they love and parents can rest assured that uncontrolled content will not pop up on the screen.”

Designed for children ages 3 to 10 to teach language, colors, math, vocabulary and problemsolving skills, V.Space delivers age-appropriate action-packed games, engaging graphics, personalized icons and activities. V.Space’s downloadable format makes it easy for parents to use and set up. Once installed, a V.Space icon will appear on the Windows desktop, allowing parents to create a personalized account for their kid(s).

Unique V.Space Features:

• Safe Gaming: V.Space looks and feels like kids are online, but it’s actually on a controlled browser that limits them to safe, educational content developed by VTech.

 

• Engaging Games: Action-packed games that make learning fun and engaging, such as Paint Station, Bug Off, Carnival Showdown, Dino Glider and Skate Express, can teach kids language, colors, math, vocabulary, science and problem-solving skills. It’s also easy for kids to track their high scores for each game they’ve played and try to beat it next time.

 

• Variety of Activities: A complete library of downloadable activities provide users with fun and creative tips for both indoor and outdoor play and encourage participation with friends and family away from the computer. V.Space provides step-by-step instructions to guide children through each activity.

 

• Easy to Customize: Kids can personalize their account page and choose from a collection of fun and exciting Club VTech themes, such as sports, cars, music, nature and animals that reflect their favorite colors and interests.

 

“Computer gaming has changed in recent years and parents should to be aware of what their kids are doing while online,” said Fitzgerald. “VTech is proud to introduce V.Space, which provides parents the tool they need to create a safe and fun interactive gaming experience for their kids.”

V.Space accounts are now available to Club VTech members free of charge. For more information about V.Space or to sign up for Club VTech, visit www.ClubVTech.com.

About VTech
VTech, the creator of the Electronic Learning Products (ELP) Category and the award-winning V.Smile TV Learning System, is a world leader in age-appropriate learning toys. Since 1976, VTech has been developing high-quality, innovative educational products for children from birth to preteen that deliver "smart play" through the combination of entertaining electronic formats and engaging, age-appropriate content that help children learn while having fun.

VTech Electronics North America, LLC is based in Arlington Heights, Ill. VTech Electronics, Ltd. is headquartered in Hong Kong and is a pioneer in the establishment of China-based manufacturing facilities, selling its products via a strong brand platform supported by a well-established distribution network in North America, Europe and Asia.