An updated version of Kid Pix, the revolutionary children’s software program designed by Craig Hickman, a University of Oregon fine arts professor, is one of the ten best gifts to put under any kid’s Christmas tree, according to "MACWORLD" magazine. In its December issue, the publication awarded Kid Pix four mice–its highest rating. An article in the Oct. 19 issue of Time Magazine describes Kid Pix as one of the best "creativity enhancing" software programs around. Kid Pix is a painting program for children–and was the first software program that could be used by children too young to read. No wonder. Hickman created it for his three-year-old son Ben after the boy became frustrated while trying to use a paint program on the family’s Macintosh. Kid Pix, which is marketed by Broderbund Software, Inc., features an assortment of catchy sound effects, such as a scratching noise when users draw with Kid Pix’s pencil tool, and a dripping sound when the paintbrush is used. Users can destroy their creations by detonating a firecracker. The updated version adds synthesized speech and makes it easier for users to edit. SOURCE: Craig Hickman, UO associate professor of fine arts, (541) 346-3605; e-mail chickman@oregon.uoregon.edu

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