More on babies + keyboards: BabySplat
Sounds like some of your kids are happy to pound on unplugged keyboards (for a while at least), while others insist on the real, working McCoy. For those kids, an option (thanks for passing this on, Fernando):
I just came across a piece of Windows software (donationware) called BabySplat. It draws random shapes and plays sounds when keys are pressed. It is very useful for when the little ones want to bang away on the computer keyboard...
In the comments of a previous post on Alphababy (another baby-friendly keyboard banger), Marcus mentioned another Windows option (as did Jamie in the latest post): Toddler Keys.
Tags: Family tech, Parenting
(or any Amazon link at Parent Hacks), you throw some change into our tip jar without any extra steps or cost to you. Thank you!
We have babysplat but swiched to ToddlerKeys. TK locks the button on the tower as well and with babysplat my son kept minimizing the screen and then asking me to unminimize it. After the 40th time it just drives you nuts. Also with TK I can still use the mouse if I just want to lock the keyboard.
Posted by: Katie | 21 September 2006 at 07:59 AM
http://www.kneebouncers.com - that is all & you're welcome
Posted by: Daddy Tas | 21 September 2006 at 01:38 PM
For Mac users, try KeyWack 2.1.
http://www.tucows.com/preview/207587
This works in OS9/Classic environments, including a 1st-generation iMac that our neighbors were throwing out ... now revived as a sacrificial computer for our toddler.
Posted by: Dr. Pugawug | 21 September 2006 at 02:37 PM
I downloaded both babyspat and toddler keys and my 7 month old loves them both, probably babysplat more for the great sound effects. I haven't been able to find any wav files to upload to toddler keys- I'm not sure where to get them?.....
Also, I too am having problems with babysplay minimizing all the time as Naomi pounds away. Also, the start menu "windows" button on my keyboard does not lock in babysplat.
But thanks tons for the links!!
Posted by: Trisha | 26 September 2006 at 07:26 PM
I had the same problem with the Windows key. I found "Disable That Key" http://www.jonathanjungman.com/projects/
Let's you Disable them. I never used them anyway.
Posted by: Jamie | 27 September 2006 at 06:37 PM
For mouse play, check out jacksonpollock.org! Good time-pass for grownups, too.
Posted by: Marta Bat | 27 October 2006 at 12:21 AM