Mac-Stacks Emporium has released new versions of the Creepin Critter educational line, Creepin' Critter Math 4.2, and Creepin' Critter Clocks 1.1. These educational titles simplify the learning process, while making computer use for children more enjoyable. According to the Mac-Stacks Emporium:
Creepin' Critter Math is a math practice game with problems such as pre-K counting, basic math facts, and double-digit problems involving carrying, borrowing and remainders. Creepin' Critter Clocks helps children learn and practice how to tell time and relate between clock faces, digital clocks, and word problems (e.g., "5 of 10" or "quarter after 12").
The Creepin' Critter format is a multiple-choice challenge in which children choose the answer to a math or time-telling question by swatting one of four bugs which are creeping up a wall towards "picture frames" which contain four possible answers. If the incorrect bug is swatted, the other three continue creeping up the wall giving the child further chances to swat the correct bug. If the correct bug is not swatted by the time one of the bugs crawls underneath one of the picture frames, then the correct answer flashes several times and another problem is presented. After finishing a game, the problems which were answered incorrectly or not at all may be repeated.
The distance the bugs creep before reaching the picture frames may be decreased, giving the child less time to swat the correct bug, but increasing the possible score. An arcade-style "Top Ten List" shows the child's highest scores, and so gives an incentive to improve.
For children who do not like swatting bugs, an alternative game called Bubble Poppin' Math or Bubble Poppin' Clocks is included. As the name implies, this alternative requires popping the correct bubble among four bubbles which are rising from a bubble bath towards a steam enshrouded ceiling. Floating in the steam are four possible answers to a problem.
NEW FOR CREEPIN' CRITTERS VERSION 4.2: "Under the hood" enhancements to make game play easier and more fun. Eliminated the occasional double swatting that occured in the "bug" game. Clicking on a bug will now swat it even if the student moves the mouse away from the bugbefore the swat sound is heard (also applies to popping the bubbles).
Each of the Creepin' Critters programs is available for US$10, with a site license available for US$50. You can find more information on both of these products at the Mac-Stacks Emporium web site.