Fun may not be the first word that comes to mind when you
mention algebra practice. But education-software makers are
working to change that, with games and activities that blend
interactive entertainment with critical thinking and subject-
based learning. Whether you're a teacher looking for a new way
to bring history alive, or a parent who wants to give your child
a leg up on reading and math, we've got what you need. We've
gathered 17 programs, in the areas of general learning, math,
science, history, and reading, that not only build essential
skills but also make learning fun. Stanley: Wild for Sharks
Disney Interactive, 800/228-0988, www.disneyinteractive.com;
$20; Ages 3-6 Straight from the Disney Channel comes Stanley, a
young boy with an abiding love of nature and a talking goldfish
named Dennis. In Disney Interactive's Stanley: Wild for Sharks,
our hero has teamed up with a classmate to do a project on
sharks. Alas, though Stanley's school chum will arrive any
moment, all the parts they need for their