Interactive storybook facts for kids

An interactive storybook is like a regular children's book, but it comes alive on a computer! It combines a story with cool animated pictures, sounds, and ways for you to interact with it. For example, it might say a word out loud when you click on it.

These special stories were often found on CD-ROMs (those shiny discs you used to put into computers). People called them many names, like computer books, talking books, or living books.

Interactive storybooks are made to help young kids learn and have fun reading. They are especially good for kids just starting to read. As H. Bennett once wrote, "Something magical and non-threatening happens when a children's story weds a computer." It's true – these books make reading an exciting adventure! Today, you might also hear them called "ebooks" or "app books" when they are on tablets or phones.

How Interactive Storybooks Help Kids Learn

Interactive storybooks are designed to make learning to read more engaging. They use different features to help young readers.

Learning Features

• Pronunciation: Many books let you click on words to hear them spoken aloud. This helps kids learn how words sound.
• Animations: Moving pictures keep kids interested in the story. They can also help explain what is happening.
• Games: Some books include small games related to the story. These games can help build reading skills or vocabulary.
• Interaction: Kids can often click on objects in the pictures to see what happens. This makes reading an active experience.

These features help children improve their reading skills. They also make reading feel like a fun game, not a chore.

Famous Interactive Storybook Examples

Many companies have created popular interactive storybooks over the years. Here are some well-known examples:

• Disney's Animated Storybook
• Europress Bookshelf
• Living Books
• Magic Tales
• Playtoons
• Reader Rabbit's Reading Development Library

Getting the Most from Interactive Storybooks

While interactive storybooks are great, it's important to use them in a way that helps kids learn best. Sometimes, kids might get too caught up in playing with the animations or sounds. They might forget to focus on the actual story or reading.

Tips for Learning

To make sure kids get the most out of these books:

• Read together: Parents or older siblings can read along with younger children. This helps them focus on the story.
• Discuss the story: Talk about what happened in the book. Ask questions about the characters or plot.
• Limit distractions: Encourage kids to pay attention to the words and story. Don't just let them click randomly.
• Balance screen time: Make sure kids also read traditional books. This helps them develop different reading skills.

By following these tips, interactive storybooks can be a powerful tool. They can help young readers fall in love with books and learning.