News-O-Matic App Review

Have you heard of News-O-Matic?  It is a newly launched app from Press4Kids (P4K).  News-O-Matic is an educational news app that covers breaking news, sports, science and much more in an accessible and kid-friendly way.  This app is geared for kids ages 7-10 (so perfect for A and B).  News-O-Matic is a week day newspaper application which includes five daily news stories, detailed images, videos, illustrations, maps, timelines and games - the objective is to inspire a generation of children to become news readers and well-informed global citizens.

 Here is a view of topics and stories from a day in February.

 And here is an example of the stories today.

You can see that the topics are diverse and fun.  There is also an interactive element that I really appreciate.  Children can rate stores, draw pictures and ask questions and express opinions about current topics in the "News Room" section of the app.

One way children can engage with the articles.

 I really like the maps, photos and videos.  I think it can really help children visualize the "big" picture and what is happening.

We have just started to use News-O-Matic and we are enjoying it.  We look forward to reading more articles and seeing what is in store!  If you have an ipad be sure to check out News-O-Matic and please let me know what you think.