The World by National Geographic
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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 The World by National Geographic is an educational app that teaches users about major countries of the world. The focus is chiefly on the app's interactive map, which is chock-full of information and still a lot of fun to pinch, zoom, and spin. Kids will also be able to see pictures from those countries as well as broad descriptions. An Internet connection isn't necessary for all of the app's features, but is suggested if you plan on zooming in and out around the globe.
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What's it about?
Kids explore the world by spinning a virtual globe and pinching and zooming in on areas of interest. Views can range from typical map layouts to looks at ocean formations to 3-D terrain layouts. Those wanting more information on a country can touch a button to see the flags of the world and details (and pictures) of each country by tapping its flag.
Is it any good?
Maps have lost some of their sexiness these days, but The World by National Geographic manages to make them fun again. The app is a geographical educational tool, but it's loaded with bright pictures (a trademark of the National Geographic Society's magazine), interesting facts, and an interactive map that is a lot of fun to play with.
The app falls a bit short, though, for anyone who is a regular user of Google Earth. Instead of being able to zoom into territories as you can with that app, The World stops short, transitioning to a paper map appearance. It's a minor frustration, but given how deep you can go with other apps, it's a bit disappointing not to have that option here. The reliance on an Internet connection is an annoyance, as well, but all-in-all, this is a solid app.
Talk to your kids about ...
Be on the lookout for cultural festivals you and your child can attend to learn about customs, food, music, and life in other countries.
Provide a real-life globe or atlas kids can access anytime.
App details
- Device: iPad
- Subjects: Social Studies: geography
- Price: $3.99
- Release date: August 29, 2011
- Category: Education
- Size: 187.00 MB
- Publisher: National Geographic Society
- Version: 1.2
- Minimum software requirements: iOS 3.2 or later
- Last updated: November 11, 2020
Our editors recommend
For kids who love learning about the the world
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.