Re: kids distribution (was : Two blind mice)
Sorry this reply took so long. I am in extreme async mode.
The "eater" game you expressed an interest in is available for download
at http://charm.zyqote.com/download/dt.zip
But I have to underline, this was an early =pre-linux= CGA =MSDOS=
program I wrote because the letters on the character mode word processor
were too small to be interesting to a baby.
Once things had evolved to the point where I could call up xpaint with a
300+ point font, the size of the characters was no longer an issue.
My point was that a lot could be accomplished by "repurposing" adult
applications. (eg making the window bigger than the viewport so that a
child would not accidently blow it away or minimize it.)
Anyway, for what it's worth the old eater program is up, if anyone is
still has a working MSDOS CGA system they are welcome to it :)
cheers,
Jef
(needless to say, I don't support it any more. I don't even have a
system
that can run it)
Chris Ellec wrote:
>
> I'm sending this again this it didn't go to the list ..
> Chris Ellec wrote:
> >
> > "Jeffrey F. Cuff" wrote:
> > >
> > >
> > > The question I am getting at is whether a kid distribution is just a
> > > collection of packages deemed to be of interest/use to kids, or if
> > > custom compiled defaults etc for other applications is the also the way
> > > to go.
> > > The latter is more work to maintain, but if it is not done, the same
> > > process and frustrations
> > > must be addressed by each parent who attempts to adapt software to a
> > > younger than intended user.
> >
> I guess it depends on your intented audience. If it is parents with a
> limited knowledge of the intricaties of Linux, or even none at all if
> coming for Windows or Mac, you need something that is all setup for
> them, otherwise, it's probably better to not even include the
> application.
>
> I mean why bother put the source code for a spreadsheet program, unless
> there is some install routine to put it in a usable state for a child
> automatically (including putting an icon on the desktop).
>
> Which goes back to what you said about being more work, but necessary.
>
> The problem with that approach is that we bury ourselves into too much
> work, and nothing gets done ...
> >
> > > The Linux for Kids mission statement states that the target audience
> > > is "under the age of 10", but it seems to me that it probably means
> > > 4-10, with BabyDebian (Linux for Babies?) being a removable
> > > customization option ... like bicycle training wheels.
> > >
> >
> You are mostly correct, since I don't really list anything for toddler
> anyway on the LinuxForkids site. Also, there is so much difference
> between a 3 years old and a 5 old child, that they will probably not
> play the same game, and certainly no use the same learning program.
>
> Is your "Eater" game available anywhere ? I'd be glad to list it.
>
> Chris.
>
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