Younger non-writers could use the drawing tools to illustrate, dictating text to an older child or adult to type. I enjoyed creating a custom letter for my son, complete with rebus symbols and other pictures. The program is gender-neutral, appealing to both boys and girls in its graphics and text. The wide variety of cultures represented in the address book encourages global interest and awareness. The user guide offers thorough explanation of all features, including a bibliography of favorite children's books and authors.
Technical support is available by phone.
I can highly recommend this program to parents and teachers alike. While the AWM would be a valuable addition to a creative writing program, it could be used in conjunction with any class subject. Be it creating word problems for a math unit, recording scientific observations, or writing an essay on social issues - wherever writing is involved, the AWM can be a motivating and educational tool. Because it offers new and creative ways to experience the writing process, young writers with special needs or those requiring remedial work might benefit from the program. As a teacher, I would welcome the chance to use the AWM with my students.