The beloved children's show that taught generations of young children the benefits of exploration through reading, has re-emerged as an iPad Application. And it's pretty fabulous! The concept of Reading Rainbow (starring Levar Burton) which aired on PBS from June 6, 1983 until November 10, 2006, has been carried over into this fun, bright, engaging app that is sure to captivate this generation just as the show captivated so many in years past.
Reading Rainbow implored children to read and explore by delving into the story lines of Children's Literature. Each episode featured new books and were narrated by Levar Burton, celebrities, and public figures. Throughout each episode the content of children's stories would be broken down and explored in real life settings; while also posing pertinent questions to the audience that really got the wheels of thought spinning.
The new App does just the same. With bright graphics and easily navigated categories, children can explore their personal interests and watch fun video content; ultimately creating a thirst for knowledge in the same way that the show did.
The books are also narrated by celebrities and the video content explores many of the fascinating topics found in some of the great titles available through the Application. With a
subscription, children can borrow up to 5 books at a time and can return them in exchange for new titles when they are done. As a parent, I am a huge fan of the implemented rewards system. With each reading milestone children will receive a virtual sticker for their "sticker book", which helps to instill a sense of accomplishment and a desire to continue on with their reading adventures.
subscription, children can borrow up to 5 books at a time and can return them in exchange for new titles when they are done. As a parent, I am a huge fan of the implemented rewards system. With each reading milestone children will receive a virtual sticker for their "sticker book", which helps to instill a sense of accomplishment and a desire to continue on with their reading adventures.
(Pictured Above: Reading Rainbow App Team at the Launch Party at Studio 450 in New York City June 19, 2012 - Cake by Carlo's Bakery as seen on TLC's Cake Boss )
The Reading Rainbow App is available for free download however, to explore all of the facets of the App a subscription can be purchased for $9.99 monthly (also available at a discount if purchased as a 6 month subscription).
This application is all about expanding horizons by creating a love of reading early on; which truly is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child. Levar Burton and this talented development team have married the modern advancements in technology and the timeless magic of story telling to create one fabulous learning experience!
More on the Reading Rainbow Application for iPad:
Designed for children 3-‐9 years of age, the App delivers a library of hundreds of curated books
and all
new videos presented in a world of adventure and discovery. Traveling to themed islands, such as Animal Kingdom, My Friends, My Family and Genius Academy, kids find a variety of books and videos customized to their age and interests. The App brings together books from numerous acclaimed children’s publishers. Each book comes alive with audio storytelling by celebrity actors, including spoken word Grammy winner Burton himself, and features light animations and related activities to enhance the story. Similar to the original series, children journey with Burton on exciting real-life adventures. These in-app video field trips connect the stories children read to the world they live in and use a combination of newly-‐produced video as well as
classic segments from the TV show.
(Pictured Above: Screen shots of the new Reading Rainbow App)
The App’s many features include a reward system in which children earn digital stickers to motivate a continued exploration of books and frequent reading. For parents, ReadingRainbow.com offers a companion website and dashboard to get updates regarding time their child spent reading, books read, suggestions for new stories based on the child’s interests plus “Family Reading Time” hints provide opportunities to discuss themes and lessons exploredin each book. At launch, the App will include 150 books and 16 video field trips. New content
will be added to the service on a regular and frequent schedule expanding the library, themes and
topics children can explore.
The App includes 150 books and 16 video field trips. New content will be added to the service
on a regular and frequent schedule expanding the library, themes and topics children can explore.
The App is offered as an easy-‐to-‐use subscription service for parents, allowing them to unlock
the extensive Reading Rainbow library books and videos without the worry of approving and
purchasing each item separately. The Reading Rainbow App is free for download on the iPad and includes the ability to fully explore the App, the islands, videos and to select one book to read. The subscription is now available for a limited-‐time introductory price of $9.99 a month or $29.99 for six months at the Apple App Store.
RRKidz has partnered with leading children’s publishers who understand the value of associating their brands with a name respected by millions. Launch partners include Little Brown Books for Young Readers, Holiday House, Charlesbridge Publishing, Kane Press, Sleeping Bear Press, Peachtree Publishers and Shenanigan Books.
For RRKidz, the Reading Rainbow App is only the beginning. Plans for 2012 include expanding
the Reading Rainbow App library of content, launching it on new platforms and introducing new
digital products to inspire children’s love of reading.
For more on the Reading Rainbow Application visit them at: http://www.rrkidz.com/
CLICK HERE to download the Reading Rainbow App in the Apple App Store Today
