Common Sense Media Review
By Mieke VanderBorght
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Lovely story gently takes on tough topic; needs supports.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Download
Videos and Photos
Meeka's Secret
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's It About?
On the MEEKA'S SECRET home screen, choose from two book options or tap into Save Meeka, an endless runner game. In Book One, kids meet Meeka, a little bug, and his inner flower, Aira. Against Aira's advice, Meeka follows Mr. Kapoom, a big gray worm, and his cute bouncing pet bonbon to their home for some chocolate. In Book Two, while at Mr. Kapoom's home, Mr. Kapoom touches Meeka's wings, which makes Meeka feel uncomfortable, and he runs away. Aira encourages Meeka to talk to his parents but it takes a while before Meeka works up the courage to do so, after which Meeka feels much better and all ends well.
Is It Any Good?
This lovely ebook nicely addresses the complexities of sexual abuse in a remarkably kid-friendly way, but it feels like there's a lot missing from the overall user experience. The story's graphics are whimsical, and though there are some mildly scary parts, the text is very accessible, even for younger kids. Meeka is relatable and his thoughts and actions are believable. The plot strikes a wonderful balance of describing abuse --and all the feelings that come after it -- in a non-threatening, mostly non-scary story. But, given all the ways kids and families can interact with an app, there are many more features that would be nice to see, especially with such a tough topic. For instance, it would be nice to have parental supports such as in-text discussion questions, an overall reading guide, or other learning scaffolds to help parents make reading the story a more meaningful experience. A resource list could also help parents look further for help and support. A way for kids to express themselves after reading, or prompts for critical thinking could also help enhance their learning. Even some additional story navigation tools would be a welcome addition. The endless runner game is fun, but feels totally removed and superfluous to the story. It's also important for kids to understand that these situations don't always happen with strangers; in fact, usually kids know their abuser which can make it feel even more complicated. Ultimately, Meeka's Secret gets high marks for its story, but could use more development as an app.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what happened to Meeka in Meeka's Secret. What was his secret? Why did he not want to tell his parents what happened and why did he eventually change his mind? How did he feel after he talked to his parents?
What relationship do you have with your inner flower? Have you ever had an experience where you felt great happiness or sadness inside of you?
Help your kids feel safe to tell you or a trusted adult if anything ever happens to them that makes them feel uncomfortable.
App Details
- Devices : iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad , Android
- Skills : Emotional Development : developing resilience , moving beyond obstacles , persevering , self-awareness , Health & Fitness : mental health
- Pricing structure : Free
- Release date : March 12, 2019
- Genre : Family Games
- Publisher : Hooooo
- Version : 1.19.3
- Minimum software requirements : iOS 8.0 or later; Android 4.1 and up
- Last updated : October 20, 2020
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