Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Kids get into reading on the iPad

Parents and teachers trying to get kids into reading now have a new tool with the release of another favourite children’s book on the iPad. Champ the Chopper.

New Zealand company Kiwa Media is turning classic children’s books into QBooks – touch-enabled read-along storybooks available on the iPad – as a new way for kids to experience their favourite stories.

Author Rebekah Palmer says it’s a fantastic way to get kids into reading.
"This application lets kids really interact with the book. They can touch the text to hear the story or can record their own version. They can even colour-in each page with the paintbox – that’s something you’re not allowed to do if you take a traditional book out from the library!"

Digital publishing is changing the way people read, she says. "Children and young people are getting more and more of their entertainment through screens. Transforming traditional books into this medium can only help get kids into reading. A good story is a good story, whether it’s in a book you hold in your hands or on a fun screen you can zoom around on."

Champ the Chopper is the first in a series of picture books about a little rescue helicopter aimed at 2-7-year-olds. It is illustrated by Daniel Falconer and Chris Guise from the renowned special effects studio Weta Workshop.
Champ the Chopper QBook is narrated by British actor Guy Masterson. It is available for download on the Apple iTunes Store for $6.49.

Other well-known NZ titles available as apps include The Wonky Donkey and Hairy Maclary from Donaldson's Dairy.
Check it out at http://itunes.apple.com/nz/app/champ-the-chopper/id40259

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