Tara's Locket

© 2017 Big Motive
$2.99, iPhone
Teaches: reading, fine motor skills, gross motor skills
CTR Rating: 84%
Editor's Choice

CTR Review

This innovative VR experience is for iPhone only, and not the larger iPad, in part because it looks best when used inside a VR viewer like Google Cardboard.. It puts you inside Tara's imaginary world, where you look around to find clues and follow along the text. You can use the app with or without a pair of Google Cardboard, however, the small font is hard to see without the accessory. The app uses an innovative text display mechanism called "flowing sentences" where you follow the text with your head motion to read. Fortunately the story is told in short chunks. You start with a bit of reading to learn how a young girl must try to find her parents by scaring away a storm. The story was inspired by the landscapes, stories and folklore of Ireland’s Atlantic coast. The story explores the value of self-belief and the often overlooked contribution that children make to family ties. Note that Google Cardboard or compatible VR headset is recommended but not required. There are no time limits. The music and illustrations are excellent. This app makes a compelling argument for VR use in children's story telling. Learn more at www.taraslocket.com