Nursery World - Software review (1)

Most children get to grips with using a computer mouse between three and four years old, but many continue to struggle with its size - it is just too big for their small hands, writes April Jones. Apple computer users are better equipped with a slim, one button mouse, but children using a PC have to cope with a mouse that is too high, too wide and with too many buttons. However, help is at hand from several companies who make 'mini-mice' for children: * Inclusive Technology produces a tiny mouse with coloured spots on the buttons to help indicate where to click, at a cost of 19. The central wheel is intended for use as an automatic double-click - a difficult manoeuvre for young hands and minds.

* Inclusive Technology produces a tiny mouse with coloured spots on the buttons to help indicate where to click, at a cost of 19. The central wheel is intended for use as an automatic double-click - a difficult manoeuvre for young hands and minds.

* SEMERC's translucent mini-mouse, at a cost of 12.50, has all the functions of a standard mouse but also illuminates when a child clicks it. This is useful to see whether a child has pressed the mini-mouse successfully.

* Resource produces a mini-mouse that is comfortable to use and is the cheapest on offer at 12. Its curved sides help children span the mouse and it has a dimple on the left button to remind children which button to click.

* Alternatively, it is now possible to buy small optical laptop mice from high-street computer shops. The optical technology means no mouse ball to stick and no need for a mouse mat but they are generally more expensive.

Whatever mouse you intend purchasing you will need to check which connection you need to plug it into the computer. A mouse can connect to a USB port (flat slot-style connection) a PS/2 port (small round connection) or the serial port (thick, flat connection usually with nine holes).

* Inclusive Technology: 01457 819799

* SEMERC: 0161 827 2927

* Resource: 01509 672222