Reading Rainbow

I was excited to hear that Reading Rainbow was developing an IPad app but nervous to see if it could meet my expectations. I downloaded the app because it’s free and began checking it out. It is truly excellent and I am really pleased with it. However, you should note that to get access to all the books will cost you 9.99/month but that would be well worth it. As a parent you get access to a website that tracks your child’s reading time and number of books, there is also a section with tips and ideas to enhance the time you spend reading with your child. The app has different topic islands that the child can visit. Each island has at least fifty books right now with the promise of more. As well there are videos showing real life content that ties into those topics hosted by Levar Burton. Each book has the option of being read to the child by a narrator, or to read themselves. There is also fun surprises hidden on the pages to touch and animate the illustrations. In addition most books include a game like matching. For teachers, they are developing a website section that should launch by fall but the app itself is a great tool. I can see using it within guided reading groups as a fun listen to books option. This truly is one of the best educational apps I’ve checked out and if they keep developing content the way they promise it will just get better.