I Imagine
I imagine is an iOS interactive storybook for children.
The app allows for a child to create three characters. They create themselves, a parent and a toy. Each can be customized and the name can be recorded through the microphone. After the characters are created the story begins.
The story moves forward with the narrator speaking how the story progresses. The app uses the players recording when the names of the characters are used. This allows for the immersion that the child created in the digital space.
The interaction with the visual story mimics that of a traditional pop up storybook, but blending a child’s own creation of a family. This app fosters emotional growth family recognition, bonding and the development of creativity and imagination.
The app is a free download with an in app purchase to unlock extra slots for a child to create more characters.
Some questions to ask your child:
Did they enjoy having a story with their parent in it? If so why? Or Why not?
Why did they choose that toy? Is there a special significance for the choice?
Can they come up with new stories based on what occurred?
Did they enjoy the creativity of the app?
Were they excited about making the story about their family?
References
Gillespie, C.W., & Beisser, S. (2001). Developmentally appropriate LOGO computer programming with young children. Information Technology in Childhood Education, 13,
229-245. Retrieved on April 1, 2016 from http://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=500657
McCarrick, K,. & Xiaoming.L.(2007). Buried treasure: The impact of computer use on young children’s social, cognitive, language development and motivation. Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education Journal, 15(1), 73-95. Retrieved on April 1, 2016 from http://www.editlib.org/b/11040
