Educational software developer Knowledge Adventure revealed that it plans to bring its 3D virtual world, JumpStart Advanced Preschool World, online on July 31st, according to a report from daily newspaper Daily Breeze.

Based in Torrance, CA, Knowledge Adventure released JumpStart Advanced Preschool World, its software for teach 3-to-5 year olds pre-reading, early math, social studies, art, music, computer skills, and critical thinking skills, in May 2008. Parents are encouraged to participate in the virtual world, and are invited to specify which holidays will be celebrated in the game, upload photos for arts and crafts projects, and track their child's progress.

Though the developer hasn't yet launched the software's online component, over 20,000 children have already become subscribers and can access enhanced content in JumpStart Advanced Preschool World. According to Knowledge Adventure children as spending an average of one hour playing the game each day.

When the paid subscription service starts, the Web site will allow children to explore the learning tools, moving from level to level without having to buy new software. It will also allow Knowledge Adventure to continually add and update content, as well as provide a multiplayer environment with user-generated content.

Once the online component has been made available, users will be able to interact with one another in JumpStart's 3D virtual world, going on adventures, completing missions, earning rewards, and learning. Subscribers will also be able to explore the learning tools, move from level to level without having to buy new software, download new and updated content, and more.

Knowledge Adventure CEO David Lord indicated that the developer is looking to bring its JumpStart brand and other properties to the Nintendo DS, Wii, and the iPhone.

Pointing to the popularity of virtual worlds such as Disney's Club Penguin and the declining sales in the educational software market, Lord explained Knowledge Adventure's move to the virtual world industry: "Here is where the revenue opportunities are. Here are the growth opportunities. Our market's shrinking. Let's make sure we get into the virtual world market."