Even Monsters Are Shy
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Even Monsters Are Shy
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this app.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Even Monsters Are Shy is a storybook app with eight interactive games and a built-in, three-step plan for making friends. The sweet, 24-page story is about a little boy and his monster, Gurk, who is very shy. The boy gives the monster tips for making friends and encourages him to become more outgoing. He asks him to go to a circus, but Gurk is just too shy. Still, Gurk's struggles lead to a funny, triumphant ending. Kids can read the story or have it read to them by the app's narrator. The games -- which let you shoot marshmallows at targets and juggle bouncy balls -- are just for fun.
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What’s It About?
Kids can choose a "Read to Me" narrated version or self-read option for EVEN MONSTERS ARE SHY. Tap the green arrows to move pages forward or back, or tap on the screen to watch what happens to interactive objects and characters. The eight easy games include minimal visual clues but no audio instructions. Kids also can tap on the pages icon on the main screen to go to one of the 24 book pages.
Is It Any Good?
Even Monsters Are Shy isn't a solution for shyness, but it can be a lighthearted way to introduce simple ideas to very young kids about how to overcome the fear of making friends. Gurk, the likable monster in the story who's afraid to make friends, learns to smile, say hello, and just be himself. The eye-catching interactive elements, fun mini-games, and quality narration hold kids' attention. Adding some activity extension ideas and conversation starters to further the lessons could boost the learning experience. Even Monsters Are Shy is a pleasant way to help kids learn simple, important social skills.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Practice the simple behaviors incorporated into this app's story (such as smiling, saying hello, and introducing yourself) with your kids before they go into a situation where they will be meeting people.
In this story, wanting to go to the circus motivated the monster to try new behaviors. Find motivating events or activities to encourage your kid to overcome shyness.
Parents may need to help some very young kids figure out how to play a few of the mini-games, since the visual cues are limited and there are no verbal instructions.
App Details
- Device: iPad
- Skills: Thinking & Reasoning: strategy, Emotional Development: empathy, identifying emotions, moving beyond obstacles, self-awareness, Health & Fitness: mental health
- Pricing structure: Paid
- Release date: March 27, 2014
- Category: Education
- Topics: Friendship, Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires
- Publisher: Busy Bee Studios
- Version: 1.0
- Minimum software requirements: iOS 5.1 or later
- Last updated: September 16, 2021
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