Basher’s Presidents mobile app is an eye-catching and fun look at our nation’s presidents beginning with our founding fathers through Obama. Since both political parties have already hit campaign fever pitches this election year, kids are keenly aware in the media and at home that there is a lot at stake in November. This makes all that grown-up political chatter they hear a little more relevant in their lives.
To this end, this app has several functions. Through vivid and engaging illustrations, Basher shares interesting and amusing “secrets and facts”. For example, did you know that John Tyler had 15 children? Or that Franklin Pierce was the first president to employ a full-time bodyguard? Or that James Buchanan was the only president to remain a bachelor his whole life? Also, presidents are presented on a chronological timeline from 1789 to 2012 to introduce kids to them throughout history. Using smart and quirky illustrations kids can take a “presidential challenge” to sort them chronologically and identify them at quick glance by distinguishing features such as FDR’s wheelchair and Gerald Ford’s uniform from his celebrated college football days. Catchy sound effects tell you if you’re right on or way off base.
Finally, this app encourages kids to be part of the conversation and “vote now!” Kids can indicate their state, vote, and track electoral college votes through www.basherkidsvote.com. Who’s winning so far? You’ll have to click over and check it out.
The new Basher’s Presidents app is especially relevant during this election season. My 9 and 7-year-olds liked learning some new obscure facts and sharing them with mom and dad at the dinner table. It has been a catalyst for some lively family conversations, as well as raised their awareness about the political process and the American presidency in a kid-friendly, doesn’t-feel-like-learning kind of way.
Basher’s Presidents is available for $1.99 for iPhone and iPad at the iTunes store.
- Website: www.basherkidsvote.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/BasherPresidents
- Twitter: twitter.com/BasherApp
Disclosure: I was provided with a complimentary copy of the app for review purposes.
