Drawnimal

$1.99, iPad

Teaches: causality, creativity

CTR Rating: 86%

CTR Review

One of the delightful surprises we spotted in Cinekid's 2013 Applab was Drawnimal; an app that contains 26 animals... one per letter. Children first pick a letter, and then see just part of an associated animal. The idea is that you could place your iPad or iPod Touch on a large piece of paper, and then touch the screen to wake up the animal. Some of the animals are quite surprising -- the alligator snaps his jaws, and the bear growls. This app operates on a very simple premise: causality -- touch and make something happen. The result is a high level of engagement by the children. The design is less than perfect. The main menu hides part of the alphabet, which is presented in a grid, and children don't know how to get out of a particular animal picture (you're supposed to swipe down). Created by artist Lucas Zanotto, from Finland. Also, while we appreciated the English translation, we noted the use of the word "zed" for the "z" in zebra. These are minor issues. All in all, this simple design works with younger children, and makes them feel in control. The app is available in five languages (English, Spanish French, German and Italian). See also Loopimal.