The Kid's Controller is a numeric keypad designed to be plugged into the joystick port on a 2600. Several cartridges have been released to work in conjunction with it and each contains a colourful overlay card which fits neatly on the controller.

It has twelve large buttons which even the smallest of children's fingers can push with ease. But remember, only cartridges marked with a picture of the controller will work with it.

I chose Cookie Monster Munch because it is one of the most amusing children's games available. There are ten levels of play designed to accommodate children of all ages.

In the first six games the child takes the role of Cookie Monster. Using the four arrows and cookie symbol - which are printed on the overlay card - you must traverse a garden maze looking for cookies to eat. Eventually the mazes get harder and you have a time limit in which to complete them.

After level six the child is the Cookie Kid, collecting cookies for a surprise party for the Cookie Monster. Unfortunately, every time he sees you pick up a cookie he will jump the garden fence and chase you. What you have to do is get to the cookie jar and place your cookie in it.

This sort of game can be helpful in a number of ways for children. Firstly, they will learn eye of hand coordination, which is important in reading and writing. Using the arrows on the controller also helps the children to learn the concept of up, down, left and right. The parents' manual explains all this and prompts you at times to ask your child questions about the game.

The graphics are very good and the Controller and game together could be an unvaluable aid in educating children.