Mini-Mouse: A Pint-Sized Mouse for a Pint-Sized Hand

Children´s educational and game software is becoming increasingly popular in today´s technology-driven world. Techno-savvy youngsters can get their mitts on a selection of kid-friendly computer accessories specifically designed for them thanks to KidzMouse, Inc., a developer of niche-market computer peripherals designed especially for kids.

Point and click isn´t easy for everyone. For kids just learning that moving a mouse on the desktop causes the cursor to point at an object on the computer screen, a conventional mouse could prove difficult. Kids often attempt a full-fisted clicking motion rather than a left or right click.

Enter the KidzMouse, a research-based, proven effective mouse for children. Designed by Susan Giles for her four-year-old granddaughter Molly, KidzMouse (ages 2 and up, $19.99 - $36.95), the kid-friendly computer mouse that features a squeezable head and rounded keys for easier navigating by tiny hands, has been a huge success. Roughly half the size of a conventional computer mouse, it works the way a child´s hand works and bridges the gap between computer learning and fun.

There was a void in the market for children, said Susan Giles, CEO and founder of Burlingame, California-based KidzMouse, Inc. "Others have tried making an adult mouse smaller, but that doesn´t work." Most mice force kids to "tap," which is difficult for children with developing motor skills. "Squeezing is a much more natural and comfortable gesture for children," added Giles.

Since the 2001 debut of its ball mice at the National Educational Computer Conference, KidzMouse has evolved into an entire line of optically driven technology. Mice come in a variety of different styles, including the company´s own creative designs---MollyMouse, BenjiBee, CoolBug, MarinaBug, Colby-T-Rex, and the latest addition, Paloma FireFly, which lights up, turning on and off like a real firefly.

KidzMouse also offers models based on Sesame Street, Disney and Nickelodeon characters. Popular characters include SpongeBob SquarePants, Blues Clues, RugRats characters, Elmo and the Cookie Monster, Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh. KidzMouse products sold under the Nickelodeon, Disney and Sesame Street by KidzMouse names are packaged two ways: as a standalone product; and as a boxed set with educational software.

KidzMouse makes computers accessible and enjoyable for any young user, from toddlers to Tweens. Devices work on PC/MAC with a USB or PS/2. Adapters are included and no software is required. Simply plug the mouse into the PC and its ready to go.

Watch for the company´s line of products aimed at Tweens expected to hit stores later this year, starting with a scroll wheel BenjiBee Mouse. Also joining the KidzMouse family is a KidzMouse keyboard that has fewer keys (67) than a standard keyboard (104); KidzMouse headsets; and an Mp3 player.