Common Sense Media Review
By Liz Panarelli
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fun way to explore world cultures; use privacy options.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Download
Videos and Photos
Flat Stanley
What's It About?
Flat Stanley is a digital version of the game in which a paper doll is sent around the world, and all the recipients write letters and send photos of themselves with the doll back to the original sender. As with the game and the original book, the aim is to expose kids to different places and cultures and cultivate a "flatter" world. Kids can choose among diverse dolls or create their own, then take a photo with the doll superimposed onto the photo. Pictures can be shared with other users or via social media.
Is It Any Good?
The FLAT STANLEY model of exposing kids to different cultures and places around the world is fantastic, and this app really does bring the world to your fingertips. The ability to design your own Stanley and then incorporate him into your photos leaves lots of room for creativity.
The user-submitted content and privacy issues can be worrying, but the developer seems committed to keeping the app educational and fun, with a "specially trained crew that approves all content shared with the Flatter World users." Just be sure to delve into the app's settings a bit. Safe travels!
Talk to Your Kids About ...
When kids learn about a new place in the news or at school, help your child find Stanleys in that place to learn more about it.
Help kids identify friends and family with whom they can share their digital Stanleys to spark conversations about living and traveling in different places.
App Details
- Devices : iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad
- Subjects : Social Studies : cultural understanding , global awareness , Arts : photography
- Skills : Communication : conveying messages effectively , multiple forms of expression , Creativity : making new creations
- Pricing structure : Free
- Release date : July 23, 2012
- Genre : Education
- Publisher : Flatter World, Inc.
- Version : 2.2.3
- Minimum software requirements : iOS 4.0 or later
- Last updated : November 11, 2020
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate