 |
| Getty Images |
“From storybooks to educational games and apps, there are a
number of options to choose from, and the countless titles can seem daunting,” according
to a report by Beluga Bloo (www.belugabloocom), a branch of Hung Hing Printing
Group Limited. Launched in 2011 and with 60 years of experience in the
children’s books industry, BelugaBloo’s site features a creative e-bookstore
and expansive selection of animated interactive apps and games tailored to
children up to age 12. For those parents looking to find the right learning
apps for their family -- BelugaBloo’s technology team offers the following
tips:
 | |
| www.belugabloo.com |
• For best
results a child must be engaged in the learning process. Look for
highly-interactive apps that encourage children to actively participate in an
activity and to discover. Apps and even e-books that feature sound recognition
and activities such as coloring will help your child’s learning journey while
having fun in the process.
• Stay focused
on the purpose so you’re not swayed by popularity. Flashy programs might seem
cool and are probably a fun way to pass the time but are they educational?
“Apps that inspire the imagination and spark kids’ interest in learning will
pay off greater in the long run. For example, ‘Flashcard Beebee,’ features a
fun-loving monkey that helps teach the ABCs with cute and colorful animations
for each letter of the alphabet,” states the BelugaBloo report.
• Can the app be
customized? You want an app that allows you to adapt the modes to fit your
child’s educational level. Look for apps that have options such as “read to
me,” “ready by myself,” “auto play.” Even the games you choose should allow you
to create a personalized experience – otherwise your child could become bored,
frustrated or both.
• The ultimate
goal is education but in order to help children develop a positive association
with learning a good app will also be fun.
Look for modern day twists on classic stories. BelugaBloo’s “Groovy
Story of the Tortoise and the Hare,” “The Pig’s Day” and “The Three Little
Gators” are all examples of well-loved stories with a fun and modern twist.
• As with
anything you buy shop for value. Apps that do double duty are likely to
increase the interest of your child and the lessons they are learning.
BelugBloo’s “The Drip Drops,” for example, is a series of e-books and games
that center on art, colors, reading and creativity while also promoting basic
problem solving and positive self-esteem. You might also consider an app that
offers lessons in English and say Spanish or French? In this case the child is
engaging in an educational activity while also learning a second language.
 |
| The Drip Drops |
• Consider your
child’s interests. Maybe your son loves pirates or dinosaurs. With the market
being what it is there’s a good chance you’ll find an app that features a
swashbuckler or T-Rex engaged in some kind of educational activity. “Lullaby
Piano” is an app that lets music lovers sing and learn how to play some of
their favorite nursery rhymes and songs on a digital keyboard.
• The best part
about the digital world is that it offers immediate access to user’s feedback.
Before you purchase an e-book, game or app check out the reviews and comments
from other users. What did they like or dislike? If you have a child with
special needs or a specific problem look for a site where you can post a
question for other customers. See what other parents and teachers think. Any
app that received good reviews from other parents or even teachers will
increase the odds that a particular piece of content will appeal to you and
your children.
Send your comments or home and garden tips to gina.joseph@macombdaily.com; @gljoseph
No comments:
Post a Comment