I’m often asked “Who is Isopod’s intended audience and what is their age range?”. The simple answer is, 5th to 7th graders. But really, that’s not exactly what I had in mind when making this game. My general rule of thumb is, if your child does not play video games, then this should not be their first. Keep them outside, in nature, exploring the wonders of the world in the same way that all great scientists have throughout time: Learning via first-hand experience. And really, considering the depth and variety of information they contain, books are still much more important than digital media. Build your child’s library and make it an oracle for their rapidly expanding thirst for knowledge.
On the other hand, if your kids are already immersed in digital media, then Isopod is exactly what you want. Every single interactive element in the game has scientific value, and that value is immediately accessible. Play is a powerful conduit for learning, and Isopod is designed to create both big smiles and a sense of wonder, with real data ready to be explored with just a touch of the screen.
But even if everyone in your family has their own personal ipad, don’t forget to go outside and turn over some rocks. This is where the real magic happens, were the authentic love for natural science is born. As amazing as these new devices are, no tablet or computer can replace the real thing, at least not yet.
So go outside and start practicing, International Rock Flipping Day is only a few months away!
http://rebeccainthewoods.wordpress.com/2011/09/11/international-rock-flipping-day-2011/
