According to Mathaware.org, April is National Mathematics Awareness Month. We can't let that go by without talking about the PBS series Cyberchase, an educational math-based show for kids. In this animated cartoon series, the CyberSquad - three earthlings named Jackie, Matt and Inez - have to continually save Cyberspace and its inhabitants from an evil nemesis named Hacker. In thwarting Hacker's maniacal plots, the CyberSquad employs mathematical concepts and models problem-solving skills.

The series highlights a variety of math principles, and some of the episodes have been created around certain themes such as building, money management and sports. The most recent focus for the show episodes has been sports-related math. The episodes are designed to help kids see all of the fun ways in which math is central to sports. So, in these episodes the CyberSquad uses math to spot patterns, diagram plays, add up scores, and more. In addition, a segment called Cyberchase for Real follows each episode of the show and teaches kids how the concepts apply in a real life situation.

PBS also has an extensive website devoted to the PBS KIDS GO! TV shows. The Cyberchase site contains games and activities to help kids further their learning in fun ways. The new "CyberOlympics" game has been recently added to go along with the sports theme. The site also has a parents and teachers section with a wealth of tips and information.

• Cyberchase - TV Show Review for Parents