Motion Math: Hungry Guppy

What it is: an app for counting and basic addition practice.

What you do with it: drag bubbles containing the correct numbers or number representations to 'feed' the fish. For example, depending on the mode you choose, when feeding the fish with '3's' you need to pick the bubbles either containing number 3 ('numbers mode'), bubbles with 3 dots ('dots mode') or combinations of bubbles with the correct sum of numbers or dot representations ('mixed mode'). There is a simple rewards system for completing the levels (you can pick new colors for the fish).

What we liked: the concept (combining gameplay and math practice), good educational value (presents various concepts of number representation, develops 'intuitive' sense of addition), ease of use, simple graphics, audio instructions, extensive instructions for parents.

What we didn't like: gets repetitive after a while, for some kids the rewards system may not be inspirational enough to play on to higher numbers. Without parental assistance some concepts (especially in the mixed mode) could be difficult to understand for younger kids.

Bottom line: an interesting way to introduce a reluctant child to counting and simple addition.

Appysmarts