Z is for Zebra app review: an introduction to letter sounds

Introduction

Before a child can start to read there is a whole process that needs to take place and it starts with learning the letter sounds. The Z is for Zebra app can be used on your iPod touch, iPad, and iPhone and acts as an introduction to letter sounds so that kids can then start to learn how to read. Instead of kids being intimidated by this process and possibly giving up before they give it a chance, the app attempts to make the learning process a fun and engaging one.

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A Key First Step in Reading

Learning the sounds that all the letters make in the alphabet is a key first step in the learning process and the Z is for Zebra app is well aware of this and has built the content around this fact. The app is very simple to use and kids will have no problem with independent learning and exploration. Simply tap on an object or letter and they will hear the audio/the sound that item makes. While kids can do this on their own if parents work on it with them then they can determine which sounds are giving kids a hard time and therefore need to be practiced a little more.

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The app was updated just over a year ago when it was made to support iOS 7, iPhone 5, and some tweaks. Additionally, it gave users the opportunity to make custom audio recordings. The app doesn't have any customer comments but it does have a customer rating of 3.5 out of five stars.

Mastering Letter Sounds

So how exactly is the Z is for Zebra app helping kids to master their letter sounds? There are a few ways. The problem with many apps in this category is that is just assumes everyone is pronouncing the words in the same way but the fact is that English sounds different depending on where you are. The custom recording feature is great because you will be able to record over any of the letters and sounds with the pronunciation that is familiar to you and your child. The app's Matching Game is then able to use your custom recordings.

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The graphics are pretty cute in the app but not anything explosive and over the top. The controls are kid-friendly, which is a big pro in a child's app, and the way in which the content is presented is fun and dynamic.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The app is kid-friendly from the menus to the controls
• Users can record over the letter and item sounds
• The matching game uses the customized recordings
• The graphics and sounds are all engaging to kids

Cons

• While the app is cute there isn’t much that pops here and the content feels a bit thin

Final Thoughts

The Z is for Zebra app for your iPod touch, iPad, and iPhone could be exactly what your child learns on the path to reading. This one could so with a bit more tweaking and additional content though.