Kid Pix is a bitmap drawing program designed specifically for children.
It was originally created by Craig Hickman and first released for the Macintosh in 1989, with Broderbund publishing it in 1991. The program was inspired by Hickman's observation of his son struggling with MacPaint, leading him to develop a more user-friendly drawing application for kids.
Key Features and Design of Kid Pix
- User Interface: Kid Pix features a playful and colorful interface designed to appeal to children. The canvas occupies most of the screen, with drawing tools arranged in a column on the left and options for each tool displayed at the bottom.
- Drawing Tools: The program includes a variety of tools such as the Pencil Tool, Line Tool, Paint Bucket, Square Tool, Circle Tool, Wacky Brush, Mixer Tool, and Rubber Stamps. These tools allow users to create and modify drawings with different effects and styles.
- Unique Erasing Tools: One of the distinctive aspects of Kid Pix is its multiple erasing tools, each with unique animations and sound effects, making the process of erasing as entertaining as drawing.
- Sound Effects and Animations: The program is known for its memorable sound effects and animations that accompany various actions, enhancing the interactive experience for children.
Evolution and Versions
- Initial Release: The first version was released in 1989 for the Macintosh.
- Subsequent Versions: Over the years, Kid Pix has seen several updates and versions, including Kid Pix Deluxe 3, Kid Pix Deluxe 3D, and the latest, Kid Pix 5: The S.T.E.A.M. Edition, which supports Mac, Windows, and iPad.
- Web Version: In 2021, a web version of the original Kid Pix was created using Javascript and HTML, allowing users to experience the classic program in their browsers.
Reception and Impact
Kid Pix was highly popular and became one of the best-selling Macintosh applications of its time. It has been praised for its innovative approach to making drawing fun and accessible for children, and it continues to be remembered fondly for its unique and engaging design.