Use the hints if you need to. Still stuck? If the hints do not help, contact the author, Charles A. Smith (use the Email button below).

Print out the help file and show the child how the mouse clicking works. Give the child enough information and help to get started. Show him or her how the game is played.

Never tell the child what to do. Allow the child to make the "wrong" choice to see what happens. Make sure the child stays in control of the story experience.

Watch how a child moves through the story. Some children may talk aloud to themselves to work through a problem. What insight does your observation provide?

If the child becomes quite frustrated, you might offer a suggestion to help the child get back on track. Do not be too quick to intervene though, since facing and overcoming a frustration on one's own is an important experience.

When the child solves a problem or does something kind or courageous to move the story along, cheer him or her on. Compliments are great when they are deserved.

Talk about various aspects of the story with the child later during dinnertime or while driving the car. What kinds of ideas and feelings did the child experience while going through the story?