IBM and Little Tikes Announce Fun and Learning Computing Product for Kids
NEW YORK CITY (April 23, 1998) – IBM and The Little Tikes Company, a subsidiary of Rubbermaid Incorporated, today introduced the Young Explorer fun and learning computer center — an all-in-one computing solution for early childhood centers, preschools, elementary schools, libraries and other settings where young children learn and play together.
Under the terms of their agreement, IBM will provide the computer and the customer service and support, along with educational software from its Edmark subsidiary. Little Tikes will manufacture the furniture components and offer the entire integrated solution through its sales and distribution network.
This first-of-its-kind, all-inclusive unit, for kids ages three to seven, will be available for educational, institutional, and commercial customers early this summer, and will be jointly branded by both IBM and Little Tikes. Approximate price is $2399.
Combining leading-edge technology from IBM, durable, creative furniture design from Little Tikes and award-winning educational software for kids from Edmark, Young Explorer learning center features all of the components — computer, software, furniture, technical support and service — sensibly integrated in one product.
The learning center offers childcare professionals with little or no computer experience a single-source solution that brings the benefits of educational technology within reach of preschoolers.
The unit’s powerful, network-ready computer comes with multimedia features, an internal CD-ROM drive, 14-inch color monitor and integrated speakers.
“IBM is committed to encouraging learning and fun through the use of computers,” stated Jim Firestone, General Manager, IBM Consumer Division. “The product we have developed with Little Tikes is a curriculum-based, cost-efficient solution for environments where children might not otherwise have access to educational technology. We believe that it offers a fun and engaging platform from which teachers and child care providers can challenge young minds and allow them to explore at their own pace.”
“The agreement between Little Tikes and IBM is an example of the kind of leap in product development that is possible when industry leaders put their creative visions and market know-how together,” said Wolf Schmitt, Rubbermaid Incorporated, Chairman and CEO. “This learning center will set new standards for excellence in the educational technology market.”
The companies are also working together to develop computer offerings for the consumer market.
Source: IBM