eBooks for babies are predicted to become one of the fastest-growing market segments, which might seem confusing for parents who hear nothing but criticism when it comes to how much screen time they're allowing their children. New research from Susan Rvachew, a speech-language pathologist and professor at McGill University, may dispute the screen-time claim, however. In fact, Dr. Rvachew discussed the benefits of using eBooks as a teaching tool with young children. In an interview with McGill Reporter, she said:
“There is a ton of potential in tablets and the best eBooks for children are wonderful teaching tools,” says Rvachew. “But in order for them to be really effective, they have to be well designed and they should involve active participation of a parent or other adult that goes beyond just reading words on the screen.”Dr. Rvachew offers tips for creating eBooks that help young children learn:
1. The eBook should demand active engagement from the child. 2. eBooks for babies should have prompts for adults reading the books with their children, to help them help their child engage. 3. Links and touch-screen buttons can help children learn to read, connect words to the story, and increase their vocabulary. 4. Create learning opportunities throughout the eBook that allow the child more interaction with the story. 5. Forget about typical structure and create explorations. 6. Don't make it so busy you lose the story: Every animation, button, and interaction should support the story. 7. eBooks don't have to replace print books, says Rvachew. Children need both. 8. The eBook should provide an opportunity for quality time between parent and child.
EditionGuard has additional tips to help you find success writing eBooks for babies:- As with anything you write, quality matters. You can't just Jimmy Fallon your way onto the New York Times bestseller list.
- With eBooks for babies and children, illustrations are as important as the words you use to tell the story. If you're not a good illustrator, collaborate with someone who is.
- Because you're targeting an audience under the age of 13, you need to be aware of and comply with COPPA.
- Even if you're targeting the youngest of audiences, your story should be well-developed. Remember, you're secondary audience will be the parents of the children you write for.
