By Jinny Gudmundsen
Gannett News Service

Ready to teach your preschooler about colors, numbers, shapes and more? Flash Action Software: Colors, Shapes & More will help.

Preschool readiness skills are taught through a series of challenges presented on a slate filled with bright, animated graphics.

Youngsters select from four buttons that correspond to numbers, shapes, colors and words. If "numbers" is selected, the slate might ask the player to "Count to three as you click three blue bugs." Correct answers are rewarded with bead counters that provide play opportunities in the Activity Centers, which apply lessons in fun projects.

If the child does not know the answer to a question, the software teaches the concept by showing the correct answer and delivering a supportive comment.

This program from School Zone Interactive is different from most because its learning is not cloaked in adventure. For $14.95, it's a bargain brimming with first-class learning activities.