Sago Mini Toolbox
© 2015 Sago Mini
This no-fail Sago Mini app lets you help friendly animals by fixing things, using eight tools. Each is operated by swipes or taps that use melodies and motions to make a child feel in control. They include a springy tape measure, a saw that sounds like a violin, scissors for cutting fabric, a hammer and nails, and a drill. Some tools act like musical instruments, providing melodic or rhythmic cues. When you mix in the realistic themes, you have an app related to tools that is free of complexity and gender bias; an excellent starter app for young children. Drawbacks include an inability to easily jump back to the main menu, or choose your favorite tool (the "home" icon is only shown after you complete a few projects). Also, the app doesn't do much to help children understand why they are using these tools, other than to show some animals by some piles of blocks. These are supposed to be broken toys; a connection we found hard to make. These are minor problems, compensated for by the fact that the tools are so responsive and easy to use. Davin Risk was the designer for this app.
$2.99, iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch (iOS 6.0 or later)
Teaches: cause and effect, logic, fine motor development
CTR Rating: 92%