DRAWNIMAL by YATATOY
DRAWNIMAL by YATATOY gallery
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that Drawnimal by Yatatoy is an alphabet app with a creative twist: Kids use real paper and pencil to draw around the device and add to a picture of an animal that appears on screen. Each letter of the alphabet begins the name of animated animal, and the animals come to life with a tap. Letters and animal names are spoken, and users have a choice of six languages. It's possible that a couple of the animations might startle more sensitive kids or toddlers, though most will be delighted. It's entertaining for little kids with or without the drawing component, but its simplicity might not engage kids long-term.What kids can learn
The simple graphics and animations are brief and fun, though some might startle very young kids. Some kids will like the mix-and-match quality of expanding the digital device with paper and will love going beyond the suggested drawings to explore their own creativity. Though its simplicity is part of its charm, it will also discourage kids from long-term use.
Memorable visuals are paired with each letter, and each animal name and letter is spoken, which aids alphabet memorization. Kids can access any letter they choose from the ABC button, so they can go through sequentially or explore randomly. Letter sounds aren't introduced, so the focus is on the alphabet itself (note that the app uses the British zed instead of Z). Kids will also try to replicate the suggested drawings or create their own, which supports fine motor skills and creativity.
The app is simple, intuitive, and supported by written and pictorial instructions. However, there are no opportunities for expansion or customization.
What's it about?
DRAWNIMAL BY YATATOY tells kids to set their device on paper and select a letter. They'll see a suggested drawing to make around the screen. Then they'll tap and an animal's face will appear while the letter and name of the animal is spoken (T for tiger). When a kid taps again, the animal moves and makes a sound.
Is it any good?
Visually appealing in its simplicity, Drawnimal by Yatatoy takes a unique approach to the alphabet. Kids will enjoy recreating the suggested drawings and creating some of their own. After a few times through the alphabet, however, it's likely the app will lose its appeal, and there are no customization options to expand play.
Families can talk about...
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Families can talk about other animals or objects that begin with certain letters: What animals begin with C? What letter do you think dog starts with?
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Encourage your kids to draw their own pictures (either on paper or digitally) and help them label each with the beginning letter.
App details
| Devices: | iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad |
| Price: | Free |
| Pricing structure: | Free |
| Release date: | June 30, 2014 |
| Category: | Educational Games |
| Topics: | Wild animals |
| Size: | 32.30 MB |
| Publisher: | Lucas Zanotto |
| Version: | 1.3.0 |
| Minimum software requirements: | iOS 6 or later |
