Archive for February, 2011

Seeking Out the Digital at Toy Fair 2011

Posted by ruckusholly on February 23rd, 2011

by Holly Rosen Fink, Ruckus Media Staff Marketing Consultant

02/23/2011

Last week I spent a day at Toy Fair 2011, checking out the industry’s newest creations and hottest products.  It’s a four-day event, filled with hundreds, if not thousands, of toy manufacturers and vendors from around the world.  It’s such a big show that it’s hard to digest.  One day is not quite enough to see it all.  Designated as a blogger with a press pass, I was able to have private viewings of some of the toy lines (like Zhu Zhu Pets, Lego and Mega Brands) and I also met dozens of marketers.  There was so much to look at, so many new toys to try and oggle at.  It was impossible to cover the 345,000 square feet I needed to cover in one day.

Lightening McQueenAs soon as I walked into the Javits Center last Tuesday and saw a life-sized Lightening McQueen car built out of 325,000 Lego pieces, I knew it was good thing I was on my own.  There is no way kids should be ever allowed to enter Toy Fair, or certainly not my own kids.  My son actually had a melt-down before school as I was leaving for Toy Fair..  He was convinced that I was going to see toys he had only dreamed about.  He was right.  I saw everything.  But since I work for Ruckus, I was paying careful attention to everything digital.

As far as toys go in the digital space, there was evidence that more physical games are inching closer and closer to the world of smart phone and tablet apps.  Angry Birds had an impressive presence, showing off its new merchandise to accompany its app’s increasing fame, as well as a new app, Angry Birds: Knock on Wood.  More and more companies are launching iPads for kids, like Fisher Price, VTech and LeapFrog.  Fisher Price’s iPad stood out, mainly because it’s meant for children 6-months and up. It goes to show you how parents are giving into their children’s growing demands for gadgets, particularly the iPad.

Since Ruckus is so story-orientated, I also paid special attention to the publishing side of the show.  As has been the norm over the past several years, children’s books were prominent at Toy Fair in the form of licensed products.  Board game marketers in particular gave literary properties lots of space and signage this year. There were games tied to Scholastic’s WordGirl, and Clifford and Diary of a Wimpy Kid were well represented.

And as far as digital goes, the fair included a technology expo called Engage!  I was surprised to see that, despite the conference that accompanied the expo with the same name, with a wonderful line-up of sessions and accomplished speakers from all over the industry, there were only about 20 booths to represent the growing digital presence.   While the show did feature innovative products and technologies, very few companies were represented, including our competitors.  I hope that the expo expands next year to better exemplify the world of apps for children.

Who’s nominated for a Reader’s Choice Award? Milo! That’s who!

Posted by allyson on February 17th, 2011

by Allyson Kane, Ruckus Media Staff Marketing Specialist

02/17/2011

We are honored to have our app, A PRESENT FOR MILO, nominated for yet another award! Hot on the heals of our nomination for Best App Ever, comes About.com’s Reader’s Choice Award, Best App for Kids.

With more than 80 tap-interactive objects that initiate more than 125 animations just right for active young fingers and minds, this interactive exciting cat-chases-mouse iPad story is ideal for pre-readers and young readers alike. With simple vocabulary and sound-out words, A PRESENT FOR MILO provides a fun, engaging read-to or read-aloud experience.

To vote for Milo, click here. You can vote once every 12-hours. For more info on this soon-to-be-award-winning app and more Ruckus apps, visit our iTunes store.

 

Twitter Party Wrap-Up: Apps and Autism

Posted by ruckusholly on February 16th, 2011

by Holly Rosen Fink, Ruckus Media Staff Marketing Consultant

02/16/2011

photo (c) 2010 Kelly Nicolaisen

Last night we led a round table on Twitter about a topic of interest to us: Apps and Autism.  It was a thoughtful discussion about how iOS devices, particularly the iPad, have transformed the lives of many autistic children. Parents and special educators gathered together and talked intimately about the magical effect technology has on the autistic children in their lives.  The group stressed improvements in independence, communication and  life skills, as a result of their using apps, all leading to improved quality of life for a child and family.

We did something a little differently this month.  We asked seven bloggers, whose blogs have an emphasis on autism, who understand what autistic children need, to help moderate the discussion.  Their presence was vital to our growing knowledge of a world we are certain our story and original apps can make a difference in a child’s life.  The group included Jenna Frelle fromhttp://pursuingharmony.blogspot.com, Caryn Haluskafrom http://livingwithlogan.com, Arline Allen from http://theautismprincess.blogspot.com, Varda Steinhardt from http://www.squashedmom.com,  Shannon Des Roches Rosa from http://www.Squidalicious.com, Gina St. Aubin from http://specialhappens.comand J. Brown from http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_122716487786903.  The group stressed improvements in independence, communication and  life skills, all a result of their app experiences, leading to improved quality of life for a child and family.

Lola using her iPad photo (c) 2011 Autism Princess

We also gave away some Ruckus apps during the event and would like to congratulate our winners, @shannonrosa, @mnikpat @ColoradoMom , @AlNotAlly, @autismprincess, and @trishpip.

Below are some highlights of the conversation in case you missed it.  Please note that their names link to their Twitter accounts (because you should follow them all!):

 

Q1: What can technology do for your children? What does it teach?

ColoradoMom Technology has helped my non-verbal son communicate. We have many iPad apps he can use.

AutismPrincess  A good app will connect the user and the listener.

Special_Happens Apps have opened doors for those who had no voice, no way to communicate.

squashedmomJacob really learns best with visual cues and repetition, technology very helpful for that.

shannonrosaTechnology, iPad specifically, has allowed Leo to be independent with his learning & his leisure.

A4CWSN My son’s fine motor skills and hand eye coordination have improved a lot.

AutismPrincess It’s also great for visual schedules for those who benefit from a structured environment.

ElizabethM88The iPad has removed some of the stigmas that other AAC devices give children.  People aren’t afraid, they’re interested!

shannonrosa iPad also provides consistent structure/apps access that is difficult to maintain IRL. Leo appreciates predictability.

AutismEd Can lead to improved quality of life for individuals with asd and their families.

MobileEdStoreShe has learned more commuication skills from the apps she plays with then in the classroom.

Special_Happens I absolutely think my son has been able to focus more by using apps. It’s an interaction he can manage.

techieteacher I think the visual and touch interface of the iOS devices is a perfect match with children who have autism.

lovelimes Technology can help non-verbal children express themselves.

Squashedmom They have an iPad in my son’s classroom and he is in love. Really wish we could get him one 4 home.

shannonrosa Makes it possible for Leo to demonstrate his intelligence in ways that were not apparent before, to more people.

 

Q2: Do you see apps supporting your kids’ learning even though they may not read yet?

ColoradoMom He can point to the apple on the screen when he wants one or choose between apple and banana. Less fits.

Stimey I actually think it might help my reader be more interested in books because he loves gadgets so much.

shannonrosa I actually think it might help my reader be more interested in books because he loves gadgets so much.

techieteacherThe visual/auditory/kinesthetic interface allows students who can’t yet read to benefit from the technology.

A4CWSNApps have the ability of using multiple iPads, a perfect way to interact with an adult not looking over your shoulder.

SLPrj I’m using the iPad in therapy with the kids I work with. It’s proven to be a very powerful motivating tool!

A4CWSNThe sense of accomplishment for children is priceless.

Special_Happens Reading comes through repetition. Flashing the words even before the ability to read is reached can only help.

techieteacherINTERACTIVITY is a huge benefit for students with autism.

Special_Happens In general, people talking barely gets my son’s attention, music however grabs him. Always.

A4CWSN Music will help with timing and math without them knowing .

 

Q3: How do apps improve the social skills for children with social learning challenges?

AutismEdIncreased communication opportunities.

A4CWSNRepetition, watch a video (which they like doing ) about a social situation and over time they will get it.

AutismEdAlso, cool in a public school to have open access to an iPod, iPad, etc. Less stigmatizing than other supports.

Special_HappensUsing apps that give Chewy the ability to watch and interact with right / wrong or preferred helps.

momofbestbabyApps are very good for communicating and showing pics.

Special_Happens It seems apps helps a nonverbal child communicate with his world. Gives a chance. A way to learn.

techieteacher Apps are helpful for modeling/preteaching social skills.

 

Q4: How do apps assist with fine motor skills? Do the visual cues help your child?

mnikpatHand / Eye coordination!

AutismEd Motivating opportunities to work on finger isolation and increased hand strength.

ihave7monstersLogan loves using a finger to “turn a page” and tilting an iPad to guide a game helps with hand/eye skills

shannonrosa Large touch screen allows Leo to manipulate, point, swipe.

azspeechguySome apps to precise movements to resize or manipulate what’s on screen.

shannonrosa Also because touch screen eliminates cursor analogy, Leo can interact directly, motivate to work on fine motor skills.

SLPrj Apps are excellent for fine motor skills – supports visual-motor integration, motivating, builds success!

lovelimesMy DD loves Present for Milo… Actually, my 8 month old loves it too.

AutismPrincess For the first time ever Lola actually listens to the entire story instead of flipping quickly.

squashedmom Jake loves appreciate interactive dragging, animation, and interesting sounds! Engage all his senses, please!

theekarenesq My 4 yr. old son loves to swipe, draw, and answer questions in Teach Me Kindergarten and works for the iPad through ABA.

 

 Q5: Emotions – do apps help your child realize when they’re happy or sad?

Special_Happens They have the ability to see the expressions and immediately relate or not.

ihave7monsters Logan loves to mimic. If he sees a sad face, or angry face, he will imitate.

A4CWSNIf you create a video social story about being happy / sad etc it really helps.

Special_Happens Nonverbal kids can quickly scroll through and find the emotion they’re feeling to communicate it to others.

AutismPrincess Hearing Lola genuinely laugh at an app always makes me smile! It’s so “normal” haha

 

Q6: Let’s talk about transitions/Schedule. Do your kids have trouble getting off the iPad? How do you all handle it?

squashedmomJake needs countdowns and still often complains bitterly when its time to turn off the “screens”.

Special_Happens Visual Timers! Perfect. Even an alarm on the iPad would work, but a timer sitting in front of him!

frelleWe don’t have an iPad but giving countdown check like 5 mins, 2 mins, 1 min, or setting timers has helped w transition.

ihave7monsters An app like a thermometer filling or something so they can see the time being used up.

Grembe Love that you can gather 3 kids around an iPad and take turns with apps too

 

Stay tuned for another Ruckus Media Twitter Party in March. The topic will be “Apps and Going Green”.  Date and time to be announced.

What’s New in Kid’s Apps?

Posted by ruckusholly on February 9th, 2011

by Holly Rosen Fink, Ruckus Media Marketing Consultant

2/9/11

 

New Kids Apps

WHAT’S NEW IN KIDS APPS?

With over 250,000 children’s apps available at iTunes, we know it’s difficult for parents, teachers, librarians, and kids to find out what’s new.  So many apps bursting on the scene – how to keep track of them?  What should you be taking a peek at?  What’s right for your child and your family, either based on age or subject matter or concept?  What could be ideal to help your students improve literacy skills?  Help is on the way:  we’ve just launched WHAT’S NEW IN KIDS APPS?to give app fans quick one-line descriptions of new apps for kids with links to iTunes or Android Market for you to explore.  Subscribe to the site’s feed and you’ll get the short notices delivered automatically.  Easy.

AUTO-PARTY THE NEWS

We believe the release of a new children’s app begs celebration and, to spread the birthday wishes, we’re tapping into the viral power of Twitter.  Sign up for @newkidsapps; plus, you can be share the twitter love by auto-tweeting info (should be just a few tweets a week) to your followers.  That way, each new app gets (in the words of Twitter Book Parties) a “communal HURRAH!”

ARE YOU AN APP DEVELOPER? WE WELCOME YOUR NEWS, TOO.

Have news of a new kids app you want to share and toast to on its release day? We welcome news from our colleagues; if you’ve developed a new kids story app, we’ll feature your news.  Here’s how to get your apps included.  We just ask that you agree to spread the news about the others, too. Don’t worry, it won’t take much time — you can auto-tweet your Happy App Birthday wishes in your twitter stream.

Here’s to spreading the buzz about new kids apps!

PS:  NewKidsApps.com, featuring full features with special offers, chances to get free apps, behind-the-scenes stories of how the apps were created, and more coming soon.  Stay tuned!

DATE CHANGE: Join Us for a Chat About Apps and Autism Tuesday, February 15th, 10pm ET

Posted by ruckusholly on February 2nd, 2011

Note: We've changed the Twitter party date from February 8th to February 15th.  Hope you are able to join us then.

by Holly Rosen Fink, Ruckus Media Marketing Consultant

2/4/11

Last month we gathered with our friends, both new and old, on Twitter for a lively discussion about two of our favorite topics: Apps and Literacy.  Based on the amount of people who came, we aren’t the only ones who care passionately that apps and literacy go hand in hand.   The consensus was that it’s the story that rules and that story apps are very good for teaching literacy skills.  Schools are slowly, but sure, bringing iPads into the classrooms, which we couldn’t be more excited about.  If you haven't read our wrap-up, read it here. 

At our upcoming Twitter party on Tuesday, February 8th at 10-11pm EST, we'll be chatting about Apps and Autism.  Are you aware of the autism apps available for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad?  Many apps are developed for kids with special needs and provide ways for them to communicate, play independently and entertain themselves.   Teachers and doctors are also using iPads as a tool to reach out to children with Autism or Asperger Syndrome.   We want to talk about this and how apps might help autistic and other special needs children to communicate effectively and improve social skills and behavior.  What have been your child’s successes and where do you see room for improvement? 

You’ll be able to share your thoughts, questions and stories with all of us here at Ruckus, who are passionate about developing apps for the special needs community, as well as a fantastic group of bloggers who will respond and share their own insights and experiences including (and more to be announced):

Jenna Farelyn, @frelle, http://pursuingharmony.blogspot.com

Arline Allen, @autismprincess,   http://theautismprincess.blogspot.com

Varda, @squashedmom, http://www.squashedmom.com

Shannon Des Roches Rosa, @shannonrosa, http://www.Squidalicious.com

Gina St. Aubin, @specialhappens, http://specialhappens.com

J. Brown, @techieteacher, http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_122716487786903

 

Join us from 10-11pm EST on Tuesday, February 15th at hashtag #ruckusautismapps on Twitter (or on TweetGrid, TweetDeck or TweetChat, whichever platform you prefer) for this discussion   As usual, we’ll have great giveaways.

If you're not already following us, we're @RuckusMedia and please RSVP by email.

The Power of Blissdom ’11

Posted by ruckusholly on February 1st, 2011

by Holly Rosen Fink, Ruckus Media Marketing Consultant

2/1/2011

I just got back from Blissdom '11, the first women's blogging conference of the year.   Blissdom's goal is to accelerate your brand using social media, and it provides the skills and tools for a blogger, old or new, to do so.  The 600 bloggers in attendence have powerful and compelling stories to tell, and they are using social media as a tool to get their stories out there.  As a brand, we were happy to be in attendence and hear firsthand about all the progress bloggers are making.  Like us, they are causing a ruckus….and quite blissfully.  As Rick, our CEO staes, "When one 'creates a ruckus,' it’s not a bad thing. We are all having fun; it’s just ever slightly out of control. We may even be effecting change. And it certainly isn’t boring."

Imagine a room full of bloggers, mostly moms, who have banded together as professionals to learn how to take their love of blogging to the next level.  And many already have.  And they aren't just sharing information about their own lives, and the products that they are using, they also share their understanding and passions.  They are providing a voice to women around the world, and they are awesome.  That is how they are literally described by Blissdom's founder, Allison Worthington. 

The conference proviced great presentations and powerful stories.  The opening keynote was by Brene Brown – author of The Gifts of Imperfection.  Here is some of what she said:

"Blissdom is a conference for pioneers. Women who are out front, taking risks, and leading the way through
uncharted territory. It’s an uncertain adventure that can be both exhilarating and terrifying. In this talk we’ll explore some of our shared experiences including balancing creativity with business, navigating the scarcity that social media can stir up in all of us, and making that long walk from 'What will people think?' to 'I am enough.'"

She was so inspiring.  As a brand, we are thrilled to be working with bloggers from around the world who care as much about the mission of Ruckus Media as we do.  It was a pleasure to meet up with some of our supporters like Emily from The Pilot's Life, Michele from Scraps of my Geek Life, Stephanie from Life in a Blue Zoo and so many other amazing women who undertand and love the power of digital storytelling as much as we do. 

Personally, I was honored to wear two hats – one for Ruckus, and one for my own personal blog.  Everyone at Ruckus is immersed in the world of blogging and social media for the company and beyond.  Blissdom reconfirmed so much of what we already knew and love about the blogging world, and we will continue to immerse ourselves in this world.