My Amazing Human Body
Reviewed by Cynthia A. Sorrels
Published by DK Multimedia

Age Group: Age 4 to 8, Age 8 and Up Type: Science Price: $29.95 US

Description:

My Amazing Human Body was designed to answer children's questions about their bodies and how it works. The title features a cartoon-like 3D skeleton guide named Seemore Skinless, who looks suspiciously like Steve Urkel (of the "Family Matters" tv show.) Don't let Seemore's mischieviousness fool you, though - there's an incredible amount of anatomical information here - the adults in our family learned a few things too.

There are four sections of My Amazing Human Body to explore. "Me and My Day" allows kids to guide Seemore through all sorts of daily activities, from eating to walking the dog. "Where's My Body?" is a quiz game - as kids answer correctly, they're awarded body parts, and when they have them all, they can dress Seemore up with clothes, shoes, hats, etc., and take a snapshot if they want! "Take Me Apart" has Seemore in pieces! Reassemble him - set a timer or free play to create your own fun combinations. "What Am I Made Of?" uses a "scanner" to examine 35 movable 3D organs and body parts. All of this is linked into narrated information screens with x-ray views available.

Features:

Access DK's Active Learning Club internet site for more information, contests, etc.

A "secret file" for personal information.

Notes for parents and teachers.

Learning activities where you'd least expect them - extreme innovation.

Technical Aspects:

Installation ran quickly and we found no problems at all with My Amazing Human Body. Seemore Skinless bursts into life on the screen and kids will love him!

Reports and Conclusions:

Have you wondered how this title handles sexual body parts? It doesn't. Since Seemore is skinless, there's no male sex organs to discuss. The title is aimed at children ages 6 to 10, so it's appropriate for it to focus on basic human anatomy.

We were amazed at the depth of content in My Amazing Human Body! And while it is designed for older children, preschoolers will also enjoy watching the animations and learning about their bodies. We spent some time learning about hair - there are different types of hair follicles and they determine some of the characteristics of hair. The activity allows kids to choose the hair follicle type and hair color, then grow hair! There's a great sense of fun throughout this title, and kids will have a great time with Seemore ("that bone guy" is what our 4 year old calls it!)

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