Linux Software for Kids

I recently recycled an old desktop PC into a kid's computer for my 3 year old son. After installing a current version of Ubuntu, the next task was to find some software for him. Luckily, there are some great packages out there for youngsters. Here's what I have installed so far:

1. Tux Paint - An easy-to-use drawing and painting program for kids ages 3 to 12. Released under the GNU license.
2. GCompris - An educational software suite for ages 2 -10. This suite is loaded with activiies based on color, games, math science, computer skills and more. Released under a GNU license.
3. Childsplay - A software suite for young children released under a GNU license. My son really likes the memory game.
4. Tuxmath - An arcade game to help kids develop math skills.


For more information about kids software available on GNU Linux, check out this presentation by Bill Kendrick - the creator of Tux Paint.

Roundup of GIMP Tutorials

1. Tutorials at the official site Gimp.org
2. Gimp tutorial editing and retouching photos at gimps.de
3. Really basic photo editing with Gimp
4. Gimp tutorials at About.com Graphics Software
5. Basic layers tutorial

A few useful tutorials for the GNU Image Manipulation Program or GIMP.

Arduino Oscilliscope

One the coolest open source projects out there is the Arduino. It's an open-source electronics platform based on a Amtel microcontroller. This is one of the cooler and more practical Arduino projects I've seen so far. It's a simple oscilliscope (10 bit resolution), but it will only set you back $30 bucks. (Hat tip to Hacked Gadgets.)

Poor Man's Oscilloscope (Arduino + Processing)

BTW, if you are not familar with the Arduino. There's a great podcast with the projects founder about Arduino at FLOSS Weekly.

Top DIY Books at the Gutenberg Project

Project Gutenberg is the largest collection of free books on the internet. Most of these books have been transferred to public domain status as a result of their age - so these books are truly free.

There are a few gems here. Things to make has plans for everything from a book stand to a model steam turbine. And wood joinery does not really go out of style, this books covers a variety of classic joinery techniques like dove tail and mortise and tenon joints.

1. Things to Make by Archibald Williams

2. Woodwork Joints by William Fairham

3. A Course in Wood Turning by Archie S Milton and Otto K. Wohlers

4. How to Make Mission Furniture by H.H. Windsor