In a rushed world, it's easy for parents to feel overwhelmed with homework after a busy day. One of the areas that seems to cause the most difficulty is pre-literacy and reading work. Regardless of a child's reading level, it can be a challenge when children do not want to practice their literacy skills. Luckily, Franklin Discover's Anybook allows the child or an adult to read the story which is then played back while the child follows along.
Instructions for the AnyBook
The AnyBook box offers a simple four step process for recording and playing the stories to be read. The product comes with stickers which are placed on the top corner of the chosen book. The AnyBook activates the sticker and the page is then read while the AnyBook records. The child can than touch the sticker to have that page read back to them.
AnyBook Stickers
The AnyBook comes with blank stickers which can be used for recording any chosen stories. It also comes with stickers with pictures of common items, like animals. These can be placed in books, made into flash cards or placed around the house. Another use is particularly helpful for foreign language learning. Place the blank items around the house with the item written in the foreign language. When the reader is held up to the item they will hear the word in the foreign language.
Ages for AnyBook Users
The AnyBook user seems to be a good fit for children from the age of three to about seven years. During this time it's easy for emerging learners to become frustrated when reading on their own, while those not yet able to read can enjoy a story when adults are pre-occupied.
Cost and Specifications
There are two available models and each differs in storage capabilities. The $39.99 model offers 15-hours of story recording while the $59.99 model affords 60-hours. Depending on how many books you would like, most families would be fine with the less expensive model. However, larger families with more little ones could benefit from the larger space the $59.99 model allows.
Many Uses for the AnyBook
The Anybook has a few uses beyond just reading to your child. The AnyBook can be used to work on speech goals for children receiving speech therapy. An easy activity for children with these special needs is to record themselves reading in order to identify inaccuracies in speech. Another use is simply a way for family's living a part to interact. Relatives can record themselves reading and send the AnyBook along with the chosen books including on the recording. The child will be able to enjoy a story from relatives even when they are apart.
Vivian Nelson Melle was solicited for this review and was given the Franklin Discover AnyBook reader for free for reviewing purposes. The reader was than given to a local family-in-need.
Vivian Nelson Melle - Vivian is a special educator, counselor and mother who turns life experiences into helpful lessons.
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